Kent State Construction Update

In the spirit of good town gown relations, the Kent State University Architect’s Office continues to share updates on the status of the ever growing number of construction projects that are under construction or are in the pipeline for the Kent State University campus — and I am happy to share those as well.

The list is long so loosen up that scrolling finger before you get started.

FALL 2012 CONSTRUCTION PROJECT UPDATE
Here are the major facility and infrastructure improvements that are currently being administered by the Office of the University Architect:

 

PROJECTS UNDER CONSTRUCTION:

Allerton Apartments Abatement and Demolition of Buildings E, F, J, K, L, and M
Residence Services determined that Allerton Apartments Buildings E, F, J, K, L, and M have reached the end of their useful lifespan. The unwanted and unused buildings are being removed and the site will be prepared for future use. Public utilities to the main trunk lines will be removed and capped per utility recommendations and electrical ductbanks to the main manhole on south side of street will be removed. Portage County Restore is salvaging furniture and other useful items. The sidewalks and parking lots will also be removed.GCS Industrial Services commenced asbestos abatement on August 20, work will continue through mid-November.Russ James Contracting’s demolition work commenced on August 29, and will continue through the end of December.

Cartwright Hall Partial Roof Replacement
Terik Roofing’s contract for roofing work and masonry repairs for Cartwright Hall was awarded this summer for this project designed byMakovich & Pusti Architects. Construction commenced late August and should be completed by the end of October. The roof above the ornamental dome in the Auditorium is being replaced; old ventilation shafts and other abandoned equipment are being removed to provide better drainage; parapet and facade masonry repairs are also being performed.

DeWeese Health Center Entrance Canopies
Cavanaugh Building Corporation is building a new canopy at the DeWeese Health Center to address functional and aesthetic concerns. Some associated building areas are being renovated, as well as installation of a new entrance canopy for Student Accessibility Services. Although DeWeese Health Center remains open, the front walkway and main entrance into the building are fenced off and closed during construction. Concurrent with the canopies project,Hasenstab Architects conducted a building evaluation highlighting existing systems and maintenance needs, as well as developed a master plan to guide the canopy project and to highlight future physical organizational and growth of the health center’s functions. On-site construction is scheduled to continue through October.

Heer Hall Renovations for Administrative Functions
Heer Hall, a former residence hall built in 1967, is being renovated to provide office space for multiple administrative functions. Once this project, designed byThe Collaborative, is completed, Human Resources, currently located in Terrace and Wright halls, will relocate to Heer Hall. Work involves the conversion of the residence rooms and bathroom facilities, improvements to the public areas, and the upgrade/replacement of the entire heating, ventilating and air conditioning systems, electrical distribution, telecommunications systems, fire alarm and fire suppression systems. CurrentlyHummel Construction Company is progressing with demolition activities and site utility work. On-site construction is scheduled for completion by the first week of January 2013.

Kent Campus Residence Services Energy Conservation Project
This project encompasses approximately 1,800,000 SF of twenty-six residence hall buildings on the Kent Campus to address the House Bill 251 energy use reduction goals. Potential construction installation cost is $20,000,000 resulting in $1,800,000 total annual guaranteed utility cost savings. The Brewer-Garrett Company commenced installation processes in June 2011 and on-going as work is being coordinated with other residence hall projects planned outside of this project’s scope. This project exceeds the 20% HB 251 energy reduction goals with 37% annual energy consumption savings and avoided greenhouse gas emissions. The project is utilizing provisions per Ohio Legislation HB 7 for payback of project cost with guaranteed energy savings over the allowed 15-year payback time period. In addition, substantial deferred renewal items are being addressed: replacement of single-pane, original windows at Prentice, Verder, Dunbar, Lake and Olson halls; installation of air handling equipment in Beall/McDowell Center, and caulking, tuckpointing, lintel repair and replacements on the building envelopes. A student room energy conservation control system is being implemented throughout; this strategy will automatically reduce HVAC and electrical usage when rooms are unoccupied. Envelope repairs and windows replacements in Dunbar, Prentice, Verder, Lake and Olson Halls and envelope repairs at Engleman Hall have been completed. Temperature controls in student rooms are operating in Centennial Courts A-F, Stopher, Johnson, Lake, Olson, Korb, Engleman, Beall, Prentice, Verder, Dunbar and Allyn halls. A total of 2,051 water conserving low-flow sink aerators and approximately 1,600 reduced flow showerheads were installed in all of the residence halls. To reduce electricity consumption, lighting retrofits were completed in Stopher and Johnson halls, Centennial Courts A-F, Verder, Prentice, Dunbar, Engleman, Lake, Olson, Beall, McDowell, and Koonce, Leebrick and Wright halls. New motors with variable frequency drives were installed on the building heating systems in multiple resident halls. Kitchen hood controls were installed in Eastway Center and Tri-Towers Rotunda that will automatically reduce exhaust flows by up to 70% when not required to capture heat and/or fumes from cooking. Condensate from steam heat recovery systems are being installed in the mechanical rooms of Lake and Olson halls, Centennial Courts A/B, C/D, and E/F, Beall-McDowell and Tri-Towers halls to capture more energy from the condensate prior to sending it back to the Power Plant. The condensate heat recovery systems will reduce the steam required by buildings and help to provide more opportunities for waste heat recovery at the Power Plant. Utility meters have been installed in all of the resident halls included in this project and will automatically report consumptions to the building automation system for billing. The foundation has been established for the potential development of a Web-based energy dashboard that could be accessed by parents, students and staff to promote energy conservation and review utility consumptions. Utility meter readings for individual residence halls will be used to promote and document energy conservation competitions between similar halls. Reference theResidence Services Sustainability Web page to view some of the progress of this project.

Memorial Athletic and Convocation Center Masonry and Window Restoration
At the Memorial Athletic and Convocation Center, masonry systems and windows were failing, permitting water to enter wall systems and the building interiors.Braun & Steidl Architects designed this project. Stitle Construction Corporation repaired and tuckpointed the masonry; repaired and installed expansion joints; set and sealed misplaced coping stones; installed flashing, repaired lintels sealed masonry and stone; replaced glass block fenestration with new glazing systems; repaired the remaining windows; and repaired/replaced entry door hardware. When work commenced, further unforeseen deterioration was discovered, requiring many of the second floor windows’ steel lintels to be replaced. During the course of the project, tasks to improve entry lighting, accessibility ramps, stairs, and handrail repairs were added to the project scope. Stitle’s work continues through the end of October.

Student Center Envelope Restoration
Carl Walker, Inc. designed this project. The Student Center’s exterior building envelope is being repaired byHively Contracting Company; work involves masonry repairs and restoration, cleaning and sealing; expansion joint replacement; window caulking; exterior plaster soffit replacement; waterproofing and paver repairs/replacement at exterior decks.Speelman Electric replaced the soffit lighting is performing associated electrical work. Phase 1 was completed just in time for fall semester; phase 2 work involving the rear elevations and penthouse repairs continues through mid-October.

The Student Green
This project extends SmithGroup/JJR’s design of the Risman Plaza renovations to the lawn area south to create a contiguous outdoor space. The eastern portion of Risman Drive is closed and parking and traffic have been redirected to the new parking lot at the western end. Landscape improvements include installation of new sidewalks, trees, planting beds, campus gateway and signage along Summit Street.Cavanaugh Building Corporation’s on-site work continues through October and should be completed by Homecoming. Read more about this project:Work begins on Student Green project.

Williams Hall Third Floor Multi-Discipline Lab
Kent State University is in need of additional space to expand its research opportunities and create state-of-the-art, flexible, and adaptable laboratory space to recruit high-caliber faculty researchers. The existing Chemistry/Physics library (approximately 4,780 SF) will be converted into a multi-discipline research laboratory for up to five new, primary research faculty members. This project, designed byVan Auken Akins Architects, is a complete renovation of the existing space, including HVAC, electrical distribution, lighting, teledata, plumbing, casework, and architectural finishes. The construction contract was recently awarded toCoastal Quality Construction and the project commenced on September 10. On-site construction is scheduled for completion before the end of the year.

PROJECT PENDING:

Loop Road Recreation Field Pavilion
The new Loop Road Recreation Field, a new pavilion and secured field equipment storage building will be built for the convenience and use of recreation users and visitors. The pavilion will include a covered area with picnic tables for group gatherings, enclosed restroom facilities, electrical power and wireless Internet access. Site utilities, irrigation controls, field lighting and water well controls will be relocated from their current, temporary locations into the new building. This project was designed by Braun & Steidl Architects. All of the contractors’ bids for construction that were opened on September 12 far exceeded the published estimates and thus rejected; this project is pending.

ADVERTISED FOR BIDDING:

Library Third Floor Renovations for the School of Library and Information Science
The School of Library and Information Science (SLIS) currently occupies an area on the third floor of the Library and the program has grown significantly. Additional space is needed to accommodate students and faculty. This project, designed by Payto Architects, will include interior renovations and systems upgrades to the approximately 10,000 SF of vacated space on the third floor of the Library. The program will include additional faculty office and research spaces, as well as instructional spaces. Contractors’ bids for construction will be opened on October 23.

PROJECTS UNDER DESIGN:

Centennial Research Park Lab Improvements
Swing space will be needed during the science facilities renovations and research space is also needed for new hires.Van Auken Akins Architects is designing the renovations to Centennial Research Park’s former 4,000 SF wash bay area include installation of lab casework, window openings, new restrooms, HVAC, fire protection, electrical distribution and lighting systems.

Child Development Center Outdoor Learning Laboratory
An Outdoor Learning Laboratory will be expanded and improved at the playground of the Child Development Center in order to enhance the mission and philosophy of the Center. Currently under design byBehnke Associates, this project should be advertised for construction bidding this fall.

Multiple Science Buildings Renovations and Addition
It is anticipated that three science buildings, Cunningham, Smith and Williams halls, will be renovated and a STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics) addition will be built to increase academic and research spaces. Renovations will address deferred maintenance needs, focusing on replacement of aging and failing infrastructure and systems and reorganization of the program spaces within the existing buildings’ general layouts, and at the same time will establish state-of-the-art science facilities for teaching and research. Renovation of all three buildings will be treated as a single project to provide a cohesive approach to science instruction and research space in these areas; this project will be registered with the USGBC for minimum Silver LEED certification. Additionally, all three buildings and programs will need to continue to operate portions of the buildings during construction. Sharing of temporary facilities in all three areas will be part of an overall sequencing plan for the construction period. The 93,000 SF Williams Hall, built in 1967, provides space for the Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry. The 47,000 SF Smith Hall, built in 1968, provides space for the Department of Physics. The 93,000 SF Cunningham Hall, built in 1968, provides space for the Department of Biological Sciences. Cunningham Hall also includes an addition that was completed in 2001; work in this addition is anticipated to be modest and limited to systems that interface with the original building, such as building automation, security and fire alarms and re-commissioning of the HVAC system. The Office of the University Architect is workingAyers/Saint/Gross, Incorporated to assist with designing and providing project management for all phases of the project. The Mechanical/Electrical/Plumbing engineering firm,Prater Engineering, is under contract with the Architect of Record. The Office of the University Architect recently selectedKarpinski Engineering to serve as the Commissioning Agent. A LEED Process Consultant will also be selected and contracted directly with the university. The university has interviewed the short-listed Construction Manager at Risk firms and will make a selection early this fall. The design team is starting programming and conceptual design which should be completed in December.

New Building for the College of Applied Engineering, Sustainability and Technology
In support of the recently redefined and renamed College of Applied Engineering, Sustainability and Technology, Kent State University intends to construct a new facility reflecting the level of sophistication envisioned with the college. The new facility is envisioned to be between 40,000 and 50,000 SF and three stories tall. The facility will house classrooms, labs and administrative and faculty offices. In addition, a portion of the building will be planned as shell space for future expansion as additional funding becomes available. The research activities of the college will be located in another building on campus. This project will be registered with the USGBC for minimum Silver LEED certification. This project will utilize the Construction Manager at Risk project delivery method. Bostwick Design Partnership is serving as the Architect of Record. On September 14, Kent State University interviewed three short-listed firms interested in serving as the Construction Manager at Risk. In addition to the A/E and CMR firms, separate consultants will be contracted with Kent State as the Major Construction Program Manager, LEED Process Consultant, and Commissioning Agent.

Prentice Dining Hall Renovation
Kaczmar Architects is assisting Dining Services to program options for a new dining facility to replace the Prentice Café which serves the north campus area.

Renovations and Additions for the School of Art
The School of Art currently occupies six different buildings on the Kent Campus: the Art Building, Art Annex, Van Deusen Hall, Schwartz Center, Olson Hall and the Ceramics Building. The intent of this project is to consolidate the school into two buildings and provide renovated and new spaces for their programs. The Art Annex is the university’s former central heating plant in which a two-phase renovation was planned to house several art programs. Phase one was completed in 2007 and this project will complete the second phase of renovation to provide approximately 32,000 SF. An additional 68,000 SF is anticipated as renovation and addition to either Van Deusen Hall or the Art Building, based on the results of a study phase. Either building will need significant renovations to accommodate the art programs. In general, the project will provide new MEP infrastructure, interior finishes, and envelope repairs/replacement. This project will be registered with the USGBC for minimum Silver LEED certification. This project will utilize the Construction Manager at Risk project delivery method. Payto Architects, the Architect of Record, completed a study with several different renovation scenarios. On August 30, the Office of the University Architect interviewed four short-listed firms in efforts to select one to serve as Construction Management at Risk for this project. The selected construction manager, during the preconstruction services phase of the project, will assist in evaluating and determining the final project scope based on estimates, schedules and constructability. Portions of the buildings will remain occupied during the renovations. In addition to the A/E firm, separate consultants will be contracted with Kent State as the Major Construction Program Manager, LEED Process Consultant, and Commissioning Agent.

Schwebel Room Improvements
Bialosky + Partners Architects is working with Dining Services to plan improvements to the Schwebel Dining Room located on the third floor of the Student Center.

Stockdale Dispatch Renovations
Currently under design by Four Points Architectural Services, Stockdale’s dispatch center will be relocated into a larger, more secured room. Renovations will involve complete demolition and reconstruction of the new center and installation of furniture systems for five dispatch workstations.

Tri-Towers Residence Halls Rooms and HVAC Upgrades
Built in 1968, the Tri-Towers complex consists of two ten-story residence halls, one twelve-story residence hall and a central connecting building for dining and student activities. The complex houses approximately 1,400 students and has received two large-scale, but partial renovations within the last ten years. This project addresses deferred maintenance issues, including aging HVAC infrastructure, building envelope failures, interior room configurations and finishes that were not corrected as part of previous renovations and extending the life of the buildings for another thirty years. Domokur Architects is serving as the Architect of Record to assist with designing and providing project management for all phases of the project. Domokur contracted directly withScheeser Buckley Mayfield for MEP engineering design. Four Seasons Environmental is under contract with the university to serve as the project’s Commissioning Agent.Gilbane Building Company was recently selected to serve as Construction Manager at Risk for this project. Bidding and construction will be scheduled over a three-year time frame with the majority of construction work completed while buildings are unoccupied during the summer breaks of 2012 through 2015. During the summer of 2012, Hummel Construction Company completed improvements to the breezeway and storefronts in August.

CONTRACT AWARDS PENDING:

Kent Campus Classroom, Laboratory, Auxiliary Buildings and Utility Assets Energy Conservation Project
After a lengthy RFP process and thorough review, the Office of the University Architect and the Energy Conservation Committee selectedThe Brewer-Garrett Company to negotiate Performance Contracting services for energy conservation measures in Kent Campus classroom, laboratory and auxiliary buildings, as well as the Summit Street Power Plant and utilities infrastructure. This project will impact over 3.6 MM square feet of building area, plus parking lot and roadway lighting and campus utilities (electricity, natural gas, chilled water, steam, domestic water and sewer). The potential $50,000,000+ project has been limited to a $25,000,000 Phase 1 and potential, yet to-be-determined value, future Phase 2, due to the currently approved large volume of Kent Campus projects. Preliminary contract negotiations have begun. Expectations for Phase 1 of this project are that the majority of the House Bill 251 energy use reduction goal of 20% will be met. Select deferred renewal items are also planned to be retired. General scope items include select: lighting retrofits, windows, air handlers, chillers, boilers, pumps, heat exchangers and domestic water heating systems, piping system insulation, building envelope repairs, roof replacements, and comprehensive utility metering. A substantial amount of work and overall exterior facelifts are planned for: Administrative Services Building, Bowman Hall and the Library. Other substantial impact work is planned for MAC Center, Schwartz Center, complete campus exterior pole lighting retrofitting to LED, Summit Street Power Plant gas and electric utility contract/operation re-negotiation. The project will utilize regulations under House Bill 7 Performance Contracting regulations for payback of the project costs with guaranteed energy savings and possibly operational and avoided capital costs over a maximum 15-year time period.

Library Roof Replacement and Parapet Repairs
URS Corporation’s design proposal is under final review for contracting A/E work to replace the Library’s tower and main building roof systems. Work will include lighting protection, fall protection, and removal of old chillers and cooling towers no longer in service. Documents will be prepared for bidding in January for construction in summer of 2013.

Lincoln Building Office of Continuing and Distance Education Relocation
In order to properly work with instructors to set-up their online coursework, the Office of Continuing and Distance Education (OCDE) needs additional space. The OCDE will be moving of the Schwartz Center and into the Lincoln Building. Wanix Architects’ design proposal is under final review for contracting A/E work.

McGilvrey Hall Building Envelope Restoration
Carl Walker, Inc.’s design proposal is under final review for contracting A/E work to replace McGilvrey Hall’s building roof systems and brick/stone masonry restoration. Work will include lighting protection, fall protection, and removal of old mechanical equipment no longer in service. Documents should be prepared for bidding in January for construction in summer of 2013.

Music and Speech Center D-Wing First Floor Ceiling Replacement and Chilled Water Line Relocation
Chilled water lines in the D-Wing of the Music and Speech Center will be relocated from the ground floor to the first floor ceiling, the spline ceiling will be replaced with new two-by-two lay-in ceiling tiles, and the existing surface-mount lighting will be replaced with recessed, high-efficiency lights. Pardo Consultants’ design proposal is under final review for contracting A/E work.

Prentice House Relocation and Renovation
The May Prentice House, a residence of historical significance to Kent State University will be relocated due to the Esplanade Extension project and for future use by the university. Interior and exterior renovations are required to bring the building up to code for the university’s use. A new foundation and basement need to be built, new service utilities and elevator installed, and interior and exterior improvements need to be completed.Rick Hawksley, Architect, dba Design with a Vision’s design proposal is under final review for contracting A/E work to assist with planning this two-phased project.

Taylor Hall Building Envelope Restoration
Braun & Steidl Architects’ design proposal is under final review for contracting A/E work to replace Taylor Hall’s upper and lower roof systems; perform concrete repairs to the structural building frame; and window replacements. Work will include a green roof at the lower deck with irrigation systems; lighting protection, fall protection, and removal of old cooling towers no longer in service. Documents will be prepared for bidding in January for construction beginning in the spring, continuing through the fall of 2013.

Varsity Baseball Field Lighting
Outdoor lighting and lighting controls will be installed at the Varsity Baseball Field.Osports’ design proposal is under review for contracting A/E work.

SELECTING FIRMS FOR:

Bond Construction Multiple Projects Commissioning Agent
Kent State University is commencing an approximately $250M, six-year program of significant construction and renovation to the Kent Campus. The majority of the work will be focused on renovation and rehabilitation of existing buildings. All significant new facilities and renovation projects will be designed and certified to a LEED silver rating minimum. A Commissioning Agent (CxA) will provide services for all phases of the multiple projects as listed: Renovations and Additions for School of Art; New Facilities for the College of Applied Engineering, Sustainability and Technology; Olson Center Renovations for Undergraduate Studies; New Building for the College of Architecture and Environmental Design; Campus Infrastructure Improvements to multiple buildings; and other projects as determined. The CxA from each of these projects will also be expected to interface, cooperate and coordinate work that is affected by other projects. The Office of the University Architect will determine scope and assign tasks in these situations. For renovation projects, the anticipated scope of work will focus on replacement of aging and failing infrastructure and systems and reorganization of the program spaces within the existing building’s general layout. The infrastructure and system needs will include new air handling equipment, heating and plumbing piping replacement, HVAC controls, fire suppression systems, electrical system upgrades or replacement, new fire alarm system, and telecommunication system upgrades. Although some changes to the interior building layout may be included, the general building organization is anticipated to remain intact. The space planning will consider the reassignment and reuse of existing spaces as much as practical. New finishes and laboratory casework are required in most areas of the buildings. Until October 5, the university will be accepting qualifications from commissioning agents.

Bond Construction Program Management Services
KentStateUniversity is currently reviewing qualifications from firms related to Program Management and Oversight Services associated with the staged implementation of the university’s bond construction initiative. The capital program includes the planning, programming and implementation of various renovations, demolition and construction projects related to buildings, infrastructure and grounds throughout the Kent Campus which are anticipated to be undertaken over the next three years, and possibly beyond. Firms responding to the Request for Qualifications must have experience facilitating and managing the implementation of large capital programs over multiple years; establishing the procedures and protocols; assembling and coordinating the efforts of programming, planning and delivery teams; organizing and advertising the initial projects; and managing the capital projects process.

New Facility for the College of Architecture and Environmental Design
The College of Architecture and Environmental Design (CAED) is one of Kent State University’s signature programs. Currently, the program is fractionalized with classroom, studios and faculty offices scattered across the campus in three separate structures that do not reflect the caliber of the program. Taylor Hall, located in the heart of campus is the base of operations and the location within the May Fourth Historic District makes it impossible to modify the existing building in a constructive way. Therefore, the university has set the construction of a new building for the program as a facility improvement priority. The proposed building is programmed at approximately 120,000 SF and will include studios, classrooms, administrative offices and various shop and research spaces. A site has been selected and will be announced during phase II of the selection process. The connection of the building to its surrounding site will be an important part of the design and the project will include all sidewalks, parking lots, landscaping and utility extensions to the site and building. The university has identified three primary drivers of project: the building must be architecturally significant and representative of the stature of the CAED program; the building must be a model of sustainable design and energy performance; and the building must be affordable while accommodating all of the programmatic needs of the college. Kent State University is currently reviewing qualifications from architectural (A/E) firms interested in designing this project. Kent State University is also reviewing qualifications from Construction Management firms interested in this project. In addition to the A/E and CMR firms, separate consultants will be contracted with Kent State University as the Major Construction Program Manager, LEED Process Consultant, and Commissioning Agent. This project will be registered with the USGBC for minimum Silver LEED certification. Maximizing energy conservation is a critical component of the design goals to comply with House bill 251. The A/E and CMR must demonstrate a thorough understanding and commitment to LEED design and is responsible for executing the design and meeting LEED goals as set forth by the university. This project will utilize the Construction Manager at Risk project delivery method. New Kent State Architecture Building Generates Excitement in the Architecture Profession.

New Institutional Advancement Building
The Division of Institutional Advancement and Kent State University Foundation serve Kent State’s mission by engaging alumni and friends to assist future generations of students. The division is comprised of the Alumni Association and Institutional Advancement units, who are dedicated to providing resources to accelerate the university’s overall strategy and keeping Kent State alumni connected to their alma mater. To achieve the university’s needs and priorities, the Kent State University Foundation Inc. provides leadership to raise private sector funds and exercises stewardship of assets. Currently, the division is located in three separate facilities. To enhance their effectiveness and to promote alumni and community outreach, the university has set the construction of a new building for the program as a facility improvement priority. The proposed building is programmed at approximately 22,000 SF and will include administrative offices, meeting rooms and event spaces. A site has been selected and will be announced in the coming months. The connection of the building to its surrounding site will be an important part of the design and the project will include all sidewalks, parking lots, landscaping and utility extensions to the site and building. The project will be delivered using a Construction Manager at Risk model. In addition to the A/E firm, separate consultants will be contracted with Kent State University as the Major Construction Program Management Services, LEED Process Consultant, and Commissioning Agent. Kent State University is currently reviewing qualifications from architectural (A/E) firms interested in designing this project. Kent State University is also reviewing qualifications from Construction Management firms interested in this project. This project will be registered with the USGBC for minimum Silver LEED certification. Maximizing energy conservation is a critical component of the design goals to comply with House bill 251. The A/E and CMR must demonstrate a thorough understanding and commitment to LEED design and is responsible for executing the design and meeting LEED goals as set forth by the university.

Olson Center Rehabilitation for Undergraduate Studies
Olson Center, located along the University Esplanade and adjacent to the Memorial Athletic and Convocation Center, was constructed in 1961 as a dining facility, but was converted to offices in the early 1980’s. The renovation of the building will address the growing list of deferred maintenance issues, but more importantly, will enhance the building facade facing this highly-visited section of the campus. The Department of Undergraduate Studies is located in the Olson Center with the Academic Success Center tutoring and other operations in the Schwartz Center and the Main Library. Undergraduate Studies is responsible for assisting undecided students with degree and career planning; assessing the basic skills of all entering freshman students; providing tutoring services that promote student learning; and providing support tools and resources for low-income, first generation and precollege students. At 28,000 SF, the former kitchen and dining hall areas that currently house Undergraduate Studies and two departments from the School of Art will be transformed into a modern, student-focused tutoring and exploratory advising center. With its prime location in the center of campus, students will easily access tools to help them achieve success at Kent State University, including group tutoring, walk-in tutoring, online tutoring and scheduled tutoring. The art programs, currently located on the north side of the building, will be permanently relocated into the new art facility once it is completed. Kent State University is currently reviewing qualifications of A/E firms interested in designing this project. Kent State is also reviewing qualifications of Construction Management firms interested serving as Construction Manager at Risk (CMR) for this project. Separate consultants will also be contracted with Kent State as LEED Process Consultant and Commissioning Agent. This project will be registered with the USGBC for minimum Silver LEED certification. Maximizing energy conservation is a critical component of the design goals to comply with House Bill 251. The CMR must demonstrate a thorough understanding and commitment to LEED design and is responsible for executing the design and meeting LEED goals as set forth by the university.

CONSTRUCTION PROJECTS COMPLETED DURING 2012:

Allyn Hall HVAC Replacement and Student Room Improvements
This summer, the two-pipe heating-only system was replaced with a four-pipe system capable of providing heating and cooling to student residential rooms in Allyn Hall. New heating and cooling now provide improved student comfort, especially during the summer months and the Destination Kent State new student orientation program. In addition, the flooring was abated and the old built-in closets were removed to provide a fresh look to the rooms. (Engineer: Dynamix Engineering; Single Prime General Contractor: DSV Builders, Inc.)

Beall Hall Elevator Modernization
All of Beall Hall’s elevator equipment was original to this residence hall, circa 1966. Elevator modernization for the two elevators included replacement of the electromagnetic controls with a micro-processor control system; it replaced the AC to DC generator set with a variable drive AC motor. Each elevator hoistway was re-roped and new elevator cabs were constructed on the slings. New lanterns and call stations were installed at each floor. Elevator dispatch times and travel times were shortened by the new efficiencies in the micro-processor controls taking advantage of updated technologies. (Consultant: Lerch Bates, Inc.; Elevator Contractor: ThyssenKrupp Elevator Corporation)

Bowman Hall Faculty Office Renovations
Partitions and finishes in Bowman Hall’s faculty offices were original to the building, constructed in 1967, and were worn and beyond their useful life. Approximately 2,953 square feet of faculty office space on the south side of the first floor of Bowman Hall was renovated. (Architect: Four Points Architectural Services; Single Prime General Contractor: DSV Builders, Inc.)

Bowman, Henderson, and McGilvrey Halls Lecture Halls Improvements
Due to the extremely high volume usage of the lecture halls in Bowman Hall, Henderson Hall, and McGilvrey Hall, interior improvements were made this summer. Finishes and lighting were updated and additional electrical convenience outlets installed in Bowman Hall rooms 133 and 137. Finishes and lighting were updated in Henderson Hall room 201 and in McGilvrey Hall room 302.(Architect: David Ports Architect; Single Prime General Contractor: Stitle Construction Corporation)

Business Administration Building Lecture Hall 100 Renovation
Lecture Hall 100 in the Business Administration Building was renovated this summer. The layout of the aisles was revised, flooring was updated, the rooms were painted, new finishes and furniture were installed to match room 200 renovations. (Architect: FMD Architects; Single Prime General Contractor: Lauren Building Company)

Business Administration Building Restroom and Stair Renovations
Finishes and restrooms were original to the Business Administration Building and needed additional ADA upgrades. New finishes and fixtures for restrooms were provided in a one-for-one replacement. Flooring was updated and the stairwells were painted.(Architect: Van Auken Akins Architects, LLC; Single Prime General Contractor: The Cornice Co., Inc.)

DeWeese Steam Line Insulation Replacement
At the main distribution steam line feeding DeWeese Health Center, Thermacore duct insulation was removed due to failure and Gilsulate 500 pipe insulation was installed as its replacement. The site was restored and concrete walks were replaced this summer. Only some butterfly garden planting materials remain to be installed in the new flower beds this fall and then the temporary walkway roping will be removed.(Engineer: Scheeser Buckley Mayfield; Single Prime General Contractor: Cavanaugh Building Corporation)

Dix Stadium West Parking Lot Paving 2012
This summer the west parking lot at Dix Stadium was repaved to extend the lifespan of the lot and provide stable parking and walkway surfaces for students and stadium visitors.(Architect: Alber & Rice; Single Prime General Contractor: Perrin Asphalt Co., Inc.)

 

Field House Renewable Energy Project

The largest, roof-mounted solar photovoltaic (PV) panel electrical system within the University System of Ohio was completed this summer at the Field House, working with Third Sun Solar and Wind Power, Ltd. for KSU Field House 1, LLC, a solar power developer. Power production from the solar panels installed byThompson Electric, Inc. officially began on July 20. Electricity from the solar panels is expected to provide about one-third of the electricity required for the combined Field House and Dix Stadium facilities; since the two facilities are electrically interconnected, each will benefit from the solar panel project. This project is the first in a prospective series of renewable energy projects involving solar panels to be installed on Kent Campus roofs and is expected to be used as a model for other Kent State systems, as well as for other state of Ohio public institutions. Preliminary data for August 2012 indicates that Dix Stadium/Field House used about 130,185 kWh – of which about 39% was solar power; 16,200 kWh of unused solar power was fed back into the Ohio Edison grid and will be credited on the university’s electric bill. (For comparisons: an average home in this region uses about 832 kWh per month). Read more about this project:Soaking Up the Sun: Kent State’s First Renewable Energy Project, Success Stories, May 21, 2012.

Geauga Classroom Building HVAC Replacement, Phase 1

This summer, phase 1 of the project to replace HVAC systems in Geauga’s ClassroomBuildingwas implemented to replace AC-2, the boiler heating plant, and the thermostatic fin-tube radiation zone control valves. Fume hood monitoring devices will be installed within the next two weeks, and then final start-up of the boiler plant and testing of the controls will be conducted. Testing is anticipated to occur during October, when the weather turns cooler; operations of the building systems for the duration should not be affected.(Engineer: Hinkel Engineering; Single Prime Mechanical Contractor: Prout Boiler, Heating and Welding, Inc.)

Gym (MACC) Annex Rooms 221 and 222 Improvements
This summer, rooms 221 and 222 in the MACC Annex were improved and used as labs for the athletic training programs which have outgrown their existing laboratory space. A new HVAC system with air conditioning for both rooms was installed. Other improvements included painting and installation of new carpeting.(Engineer: Hinkel Engineering; Single Prime General Contractor: Hummel Construction Company)

Kent State University Renewable Energy Master Plan
Gravity Renewables Group completed a comprehensive Renewable Energy Master Plan in effort to responsibly and efficiently apply appropriate renewable energy methods throughoutKentStateUniversity’s campuses. Renewable energy deployment is the next logical step toKentState’s aggressive, energy conservation programs and sustainability initiatives. This comprehensive methodology demonstratesKentState’s stewardship of public funding, responsible cost containment for its students and environmental impact reduction. Curricular components are also being developed. A consulting firm is assisting the university with developing and refining objectives associated with implementing renewable energy solutions across its campuses. The consultant studied the eight campus sites, facilities and utility data and prepared the Master Plan. Phase 1 of the Master Plan was completed on May 5, and suggests projects as “Priority A” 2011 and “Priority B” 2012 and beyond. “Priority A” solar photovoltaic (PV) panel projects recommended at the Kent Campus involves the Field House, Student Recreation and Wellness Center, Memorial Athletic and Convocation Center and Schwartz Center, and at Stark and Trumbull campuses. A “Priority A” wind turbine project at Ashtabula Campus is suggested. All options for grants and financing are being investigated for maximum overall project success. The first project, solar PV electric panels on the Field House roof, was completed in summer 2012 and officially began providing power on July 20, 2012.
Library Restroom Renovations
This summer, restrooms on the first, third, fourth and fifth floors of the Library were renovated. New plumbing was installed in restrooms on the first floor of the Library to create a centralized core area. On the third floor, finishes and fixtures were updated. On the fourth and fifth floors, using additional space from the adjacent closet, the existing single restrooms were converted to separate men’s and women’s restrooms. (Architect: Van Auken Akins Architects, LLC; Single Prime General Contractor: DSV Builders, Inc.)
Murin Garden Lighting
Outdoor lighting in the Murin Gardens and adjacent areas were improved and upgraded with the new campus standard lighting system and new landscaping in the main boulevard. (Engineer: Epic Design Services Group; Single Prime Electrical Contractor: J. W. Didado Electric, Inc.)

Regional Academic Center at Twinsburg
Utilizing new and flexible bond provisions from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, the Summit County Port Authority (SCPA) issued Build America Bonds to finance the construction of Kent State University’s Regional Academic Center in Twinsburg. Through a development agreement with the SCPA, KSU Twinsburg LLC, a limited liability company controlled and managed byFairmount Properties LLC and Premier Development Partners, built the 44,000 SF Academic Center on behalf of the port authority as agent and Kent State University as tenant of the port. The facility is located on SR 91 North near Interstate 480. With a 30-year triple net lease, the transaction structure provides attractive long term, fixed rate financing; and because of the Build America Bonds structure, a lower rate of interest, resulting in reduced lease payment amounts. Over the entire 30-year term,KentStateUniversity’s lease payments will be a direct pass-through of bond principal, interest, and federal rebate with cost savings of $1,400,000. Construction was completed this summer and the building was occupied for use at the start of Fall Semester 2012.

Science Research Building Roof Replacement and Masonry Repairs
The Science Research Building’s exterior envelope was repaired and the main building roof system replaced. The project also included replacement of various exhaust equipment and lighting protection.(Architect: Chambers, Murphy & Burge Restoration Architects, Ltd.; General Contractor: Roth Bros., Inc.)

Summit Street Power Plant Cooling Towers Upgrades, Phase 2
Two new cooling towers, one tower water pump, one new primary and a secondary chilled water pump were installed in the Summit Street Power Plant. This project also provided new VFDs for each pump and for new cooling towers, new structural steel for towers, controls, balance system, cooling tower controls and programming. The addition of these new cooling towers addresses the necessary capacity issues currently associated with the plant and will allow for full operation of the facility. These modifications enabled the chilled water plant to save energy through operations and controls. (Engineer: Scheeser Buckley Mayfield, LLC; Mechanical Contractor: S. A. Comunale Co., Inc.; Electrical Contractor: M & M Electrical , Inc.)

Taylor Hall Renovations for the May 4th Visitors Center
A portion of the first floor of Taylor Hall was renovated to construct a visitors’ center to house exhibits regarding the events of May 4, 1970. The project entailed new installation of interior partitions, finishes, electrical, teledata, audio-visual systems, and heating, ventilating, and air conditioning improvements. The May 4^th Visitors Center will officially be opened to the public on October 20.(Architect: Wanix Architects, LLC: Engineer: Karpinski Engineering; General Trades Contractor: DSV Builders, Inc.; Mechanical Contractor: Kline & Kavali Mechanical Contractors, LLC; Electrical Contractor: J. W. Didado Electric, Inc.; Technology Contractor: Echo 24, Inc.)

For general reference, a complete listing and status of design and construction projects administered by the Office of the University Architect, can be accessed via the Internet at the URL: http://www.kent.edu/universityarchitect/projects/index.cfm.

Watch the Time-Lapsed You-Tube Video, “100 Years of Construction at Kent State University”: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZVVuAHLfFuw.

Please refer any questions or concerns regarding these summer construction activities to the Office of the University Architect switchboard by calling 330-672-3880. Thank you in advance for your patience and cooperation while these improvement projects are underway.

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