The ODU Biology project consists of a new 5-story biological sciences facility encompassing 162,596 gross square feet. The concrete framed structure will be supported by deep pile foundations while the exterior envelope will be consistent with the University’s palette of materials and incorporate glass, metal panel, and masonry elements. The building program houses undergraduate science labs, research labs, classroom and lecture, and instructional spaces, as well as a vivarium and a green house on Level 4. The building’s MEP / utility systems include infrastructure to support requirements for lab gases, deionized water, fume hood exhaust systems (utilizing 100% make-up air), and HVAC systems to manage the combined large heat loads from the various research labs and equipment. Specialized equipment is required for the vivarium and greenhouses. The 3.5 +/- acre site is located near other academic science facilities and has tightly constrained site parameters with limited laydown opportunities requiring just-in-time material deliveries. The existing site will require demolition of the old Chemistry Building, Greenhouse and Planetarium. The site is located within the Chesapeake Bay Preservation area for storm water management which requires careful planning and execution in erosion and sediment control measures as well as experience in construction Best Management Practices (BMP) and other advanced stormwater management practices.
