The proposed scope of this SAHM4 project addresses deferred maintenance for the approximately 60-year-old historic facility while fulfilling the priority for advancing STEM disciplines in the context of the University of Georgia 2020 Strategic Plan. The project will primarily focus on renovating approximately 83,000 GSF of interior space in the 1960’s high-rise north wing as well as corridor and restroom improvements in the one-story west wing. While replacing outdated mechanical, electrical, and plumbing systems and addressing life safety, accessibility, and structural codes, the interior improvements are intended to modernize research labs, optimizing collaborative interactions and innovations in STEM disciplines for students and researchers. It is envisioned the renovated space will consist of flexible open labs, support spaces, write-up stations, offices, and collaboration spaces. While there will be fume hoods and bio-safety cabinets in the wet lab research areas it will generally be medium to low intensity (as compared to a high intensity chemistry laboratories). Renovated labs will provide higher quality and more flexible environments for contemporary research needs. The primary circulation corridors are anticipated to be maintained, and the project will include comprehensive new building systems, finishes, and IT replacement. A significant portion of the project is the replacement of building systems. From a sustainability perspective, this is anticipated to increase energy efficiency and reduce operating costs. Safety and accessibility improvements will bring the facility into closer alignment with current codes and operational expectations. The project scope includes sequencing of building systems (potentially with some temporary systems) and life safety requirements to ensure that all remaining occupied spaces remain functional during the renovations. While the project will generally focus on interior renovations, there may be some minor exterior site work to meet ADA, equipment pads to support new electrical equipment and / or temporary equipment to support the occupied areas. Exterior building work includes replacement of the roof and some of the exterior doors, potential original window replacement, and removal of exterior mechanical system components attached to the exterior facades that will no longer be utilized.
