A. The project will aim to reduce dedicated space usage while providing flexible educational space and maintaining a focus on sustainability. The building must meet budgetary constraints while balancing innovation and practical consideration to construction type for an occupancy date of 06/08/2027. The University intends to construct a technology-first building by partnering with a company such as Cisco Systems and its ecosystem partners to incorporate smart building technologies, and develop technologically enhanced, data driven solutions for the building. It is the expectation of the University that the awarded architect will collaborate with the Rowan Design team, including Cisco Systems and Siemens Industry Inc. or a similar company, to make this project a success. This building will position the University to begin setting a standard for how the University integrates technology and innovation across the entire campus, and the proposed design should be replicable to scale across future buildings. The University would like the new CHSS Building to fulfill the following requirements: 1. Foster an innovative and dynamic environment: a. A non-traditional design in terms of conventional academic structures. The University would like an open, adaptable environment that encourages creativity, collaboration and interaction across disciplines. b. A key feature of the building will be a variety of technology enabled, nontraditional workspaces: touch-down spaces, huddle rooms, pods, and collaborative zones that will be available for reservation via an electronic system. This will enable faculty, staff, and students to work, learn, teach and interact in flexible and dynamic ways. It is expected that these new technologies will extend existing Information Technology Standards. c. The safety and well-being of all users will be a priority in the building's design, ensuring that spaces are secure, accessible, and conducive to a positive academic experience. 2. Prioritizing flexibility: a. The central concept of the building is the creation of shared spaces that can be easily reconfigured to meet the needs of various groups and activities. The building’s layout will foster a sense of community and collaboration among students, faculty, and staff. b. Classrooms will be designed to support hybrid and interactive learning experiences, integrating the latest pedagogical tools and flexible layouts to facilitate diverse teaching styles and student engagement. 3. Technology integration and shared spaces: a. Leading-edge technology will be seamlessly embedded throughout the building, with flexible infrastructure that allows for future updates and evolving tech needs. Common areas, hallways, and connective spaces will be designed to facilitate easy adaptation to new technologies. b. Dedicated office suites for the Dean of CHSS and the Senior Vice President of Information, Resources & Technology (IRT) , who will be provided their respective space for administrative and support functions. Technologically enhanced flexible spaces will be included to address the need for meetings and collaboration. Additionally, if available, space for select IRT teams in alignment with the programming vision of the building. B. Programming: The University anticipates an approximate 45,000 GSF building with a focused program listed below, in order of importance: 1. Academic Building 2. Dean’s and Senior Vice President’s Suites 3. Office Space 4. Dynamic Classrooms 5. Dynamic Work Areas 6. Physical Safety II. SCOPE OF WORK The selected firm will provide comprehensive project management services from project initiation through the Schematic Design Package delivery. The University may elect to extend the contract as deemed necessary to contract through documentation, construction administration and project close-out and move-in. Key responsibilities include: A. Project Management & Owner Representation 1. Serve as the primary point of contact between the institution and all contractors, architects, engineers, and consultants. 2. Ensure the project adheres to the approved schedule and budget. 3. Facilitate communication between stakeholders (e.g., administration, faculty, staff, external consultants). 4. Provide financial management oversight, including estimates, budget tracking, invoice approvals, and change order management. 5. Provide schedule management and oversight 6. Lead regular project meetings, providing updates on progress, risks, and issues. 7. Review and ensure compliance with all institutional and regulatory requirements, including zoning, environmental, safety, and ADA standards.
