A Generous Donation from the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation Jump Starts Construction of an Important New UW Research Facility
Bioengineering Genome Sciences Building
Hoffman’s flexible approach helps the University make the best use of the project budget, mostly funded through private research grants. The team helped plan mechanical systems, utilities, and phasing so that half the building could be constructed while waiting for additional grant money to construct the second half. The approach was critical to achieving the schedule goals.
As an important addition to UW’s world-renowned bioengineering program, this 265,000 SF building includes 123,000 SF of bioengineering research space and 133,000 SF dedicated to genome sciences research. It includes a Bioengineering Physiology Lab, Molecular Bioengineering Lab, Instrumentation Lab, and additional instructional space. The bottom floor houses a vivarium for rats and mice. Hoffman put intense focus on quality control for the sophisticated labs, including sending our engineer to Wisconsin to inspect the manufacturing plant where the lab casework was being made. During preconstruction Hoffman developed plans for dewatering and dealing with contaminated soil, as well as an approach to protecting a utility tunnel that runs under the site. We also developed an innovative approach to shoring that improved safety, productivity, and waterproofing quality. In a related work scope, Hoffman built a 1,200 SF data center to serve the building. It uses two independent air conditioning units forcing cool air under the raised floor, dry fire suppression system, and duct work with moisture sensors.
