UAB Completes Phase I of STEM Complex Construction

  • By Matt Jones
  • 09/14/23

The University of Alabama at Birmingham recently announced that the first phase of construction on a new Science and Engineering Complex is complete, according to a news release. The university is partnering with Hoar Construction on the three-phase project, which will unite all of the university’s basic science undergraduate and graduate programs underneath one roof. Phase I consists of a 138,842-square-foot, four-story facility featuring labs and classrooms for biology, chemistry, and physics, as well as administrative space.

“We are proud to deliver this project to the students, faculty, and staff at UAB, as the new Science and Engineering Complex represents a significant commitment to advancing the university’s prowess as a key research hub that enhances career opportunities and bolsters economic development across Alabama,” said Chad Holland, project executive at Hoar. “This project was completed at the highest quality for the next generation of students, leaders and innovators within science and engineering. Hoar remains steadfast in our commitment to build top-tier projects across all realms of higher education, and we are honored to contribute to the university’s growth in our hometown of Birmingham.”

The facility was designed as a team-learning environment that will promote student collaboration between both students and faculty in different scientific disciplines. Specialized workspaces include an optics lab, research labs for student shadowing, and cold-growth environment rooms.

The news release reports that Hoar used computerized, 3D models of the structure to address design concerns during the construction process. The models were used to assess material quantities, optimize item placement, and identify design conflicts. Additionally, Building Information Modeling (BIM) were used to streamline the installation of plumbing and electrical components to save both time and cost.

The university is also partnering with lead architect Goodwyn, Mills & Cawood for the building’s design, as well as Lord Aeck Sargent (LAS) for lab and research space consulting.

About the Author

Matt Jones is senior editor of Spaces4Learning. He can be reached at [email protected].

Featured

  • University of Kentucky Sees Positive Results from Energy Efficiency Program

    The University of Kentucky in Lexington, Ky., recently announced the results of its Energy Program in Facilities Management, put into place eight years ago, according to a news release. Between the fiscal years of 2017 and 2025, the university’s campus grew by 13.6% while the energy use per square foot dropped by 19.2%.

  • University of Kansas Opens $400M Football Stadium Reconstruction

    The University of Kansas in Lawrence, Kan., recently announced that the $400-million reconstruction of David Booth Kansas Memorial Stadium is complete in time for the 2025 football season, according to a news release. The university partnered with Turner Construction Company on the project.

  • Inglewood Unified School District Breaks Ground on New High School

    The Inglewood Unified School District in Inglewood, Calif., recently broke ground on a new campus for Inglewood High School, according to a news release. The project has a budget of about $240 million, funding coming through bond proceeds from Measure I.

  • California School District Starts Construction on Public Safety Center

    The San Bernardino City Unified School District (SBCUSD) recently announced that construction has begun on a new public safety center that will house the district’s safety and security programs. According to a news release, the James Ramos Center for Public Safety will measure in at 17,140 square feet and contain the district’s Police Department, Office of Emergency Management, and cadet program.

Digital Edition