PROJECT DESCRIPTION:
The UNF Science & Humanities project consists of a new 117,000 GSF Teaching and Research Facility with the Coastal Biology Program as the flagship of the department. The facility will be designed to achieve the highest LEED certification possible.

The teaching labs are programmed for 24 students utilizing a 1280 SF lab planning module. Each equipped with gas, air and vacuums systems, 8 Foot fume hood, a minimum of 2 large sinks, mobile and fixed casework with chemical resistant epoxy tops and floor space for equipment.

The research labs are programmed utilizing a 640 SF planning module. Each lab module includes open lab area with mobile casework, overhead and perimeter services and utilities, floor space for equipment and a minimum of one write up station, 5 Foot fume hood, snorkel exhaust and a large deep sink with space for equipment and or casework along with a safety station including shower and eyewash, fire extinguisher, first aid and personal protective devices. In addition, there will be an Animal Care Facility designed as a cubical configuration utilizing ventilated cage racks along with dedicated clean and dirt wash rooms.

The Green House is approximately 20’ x 40’ located on the roof adjacent to the penthouse and will be primarily utilized as a conservatory utilizing polycarbonate panels and automatic temperature dependent ventilation. This will also include manual shading to control and zone the interior environment with rainwater harvesting utilized for manual watering.

The Lecture Classrooms consist of two types. One lecture type classroom being a tradition style arrangement accommodating up to 200 seats in tiered rows and fixed tables. The other lecture type a flexible 48 seat with movable tables and seats.

Administrative and faculty offices are distributed over the three floors and organized between the research and teaching wings with access to a conference room on each floor.

CURRENT STATUS (1/1/12):
The project is now approaching the substantial completion status and we are currently under review by the design team, authorities and UNF for its final acceptance.

Significant progress has been made around the building’s site. Light poles were connected and installed in the courtyard and landscaping is undergoing along with irrigation in all areas of the building’s perimeter. The temporary fence has been removed along the north and west side by Building #3. The service yard ground slab and brick walls work was completed and the golf cart canopy along with other required metal fabrications were installed.

The lecture halls of the building are now substantially completed. The science lab casework is substantially completed as well. Finish trades are currently addressing deficiencies and closing the back of house areas which is the last area to be completed. 

Substantial completion inspections were performed during this month and we are now addressing the comments to request a final. The Architect and Engineers have also issued itemized punch items to all trades which are expected to be completed by the end of January.