University Times

Pitt’s capital expansion plans for the sciences did not stop with the opening Oct. 6 of the Biomedical Science Tower 3. (See Oct. 13 University Times.)

A new Life Science Annex, the $25.5 million expansion of the Clapp/Langley/Crawford (CLC) halls complex, also officially opened this month.

The project, phase I of a multi-phase upgrade of the CLC complex, has added some 50,000 gross sq. ft. to house biological sciences laboratories, neuroscience research programs and support areas such as cold rooms, constant temperature rooms, computer areas and other auxiliary spaces.

Renovation of some of the CLC’s systems infrastructure also was included in the project, according to Joseph Fink, interim associate vice chancellor for Facilities Management.

“The plan with the CLC complex was to finish the annex so that there will be swing space available for a more complete renovation project, particularly in Langley Hall,” Fink said. “The phase I infrastructure work in Langley to accommodate future needs will continue into the spring.”

That infrastructure work consists of new plumbing, HVAC and fire protection and laboratory systems on the 2nd and 4th floors of Langley Hall, as required for future renovation of laboratories in those areas, Fink said.

Several years ago, the state approved $5.5 million to start infrastructure improvements in the CLC. But Pitt shifted plans after it became clear that changes in the infrastructure could not be implemented without moving some labs out of the building, Facilities Management officials have reported in the past.

Pitt then decided on the addition to accommodate displaced labs, and the commonwealth released $25.5 million, including $17.7 million in construction costs.

Construction began in May 2004, overseen by the general contractor Burt Hill Kosar Rittelmann Associates, Inc.

“The good thing is that the project came in on time and within the budget,” Fink said.

Phase II of the plan, which calls for $4.5 million of additional renovations to Langley Hall, is awaiting approval from the Board of Trustees property and facilities committee, Fink added. That committee is expected to meet Nov. 11.

“Future phases will be identified in the new 12-year [University-wide] capital plan,” Fink said, which is in development.

—Peter Hart