The University of Georgia says Rutherford Hall, a 72-year-old dormitory on the University of Georgia's South Campus, will be razed and rebuilt as a 260-resident hall.

Historic preservation groups had urged the university to renovate the building. The university said Tuesday the replacement project will be done with attention paid to retaining the historic character of the original structure.

The demolition will begin after the 2012 spring semester, with the new residence hall ready for occupancy in the fall of 2013.

University President Michael Adams issued a statement saying that replacing Rutherford Hall is the best option for providing safe and functional housing on campus.

University officials say Rutherford Hall's utilities are worn out and upgrading the structure is costly and impractical.

Tags: University of Georgia, Rutherford Hall