New high-tech facility will also contribute to the University of Virginia's Sustainability Plan
CHARLOTTESVILLE, Va., April 28,
2024 /PRNewswire-PRWeb/ -- Gilbane Building Company
today announced the successful completion of construction of the
University of Virginia' s cutting-edge
School of Data Science building. Thanks to the significant
$120 million donation from the
Quantitative Foundation, the private family foundation of
Jaffray and Merrill Woodriff, for
the establishment of a School of Data Science, this project became
a reality. The design process commenced in January 2020 with architectural teams from
Hopkins Architects, VMDO, and the University's Office of the
Architect. Groundbreaking took place in October 2021, with construction led by the
Gilbane Building Company.
"This beautiful and unique new space gives
students, faculty, and staff a home base for research and teaching
that intersects with schools and disciplines across Grounds and
beyond," said University President Jim
Ryan.
The new home of the School of Data Science is located at the
east entrance of the Emmet-Ivy Corridor, a UVA expansion project
that will also include a building for the Karsh Institute of
Democracy, a hotel, a conference center, as well as a proposed
performing and visual arts center.
This four-story, 61,000-square-foot facility for the School of
Data Science embodies the core principles of openness and
collaboration that drive the school's mission. Designed with open
hallways, a spacious atrium, monumental stairs, adaptive
classrooms, and research and meeting areas, the building promotes a
culture of innovation and teamwork.
"We are delighted to continue our partnership with UVA on this
cutting-edge facility that creates opportunity for collaborative,
open, and responsible data science research and education as the
school's goals state," said Maggie
Reed, Gilbane's Richmond,
Virginia, Business Leader. "While we helped build a physical
building to house the program, we are excited about what this
school without walls will create in the future."
An interactive data sculpture, designed by SoSo Limited and
built by Hypersonic, will be a unique feature of the building,
allowing visitors to engage with data sets and explore various data
stories. The sculpture, hanging from a skylight at the building's
core, will be visible from the street and every floor.
Inclusivity is a priority, and the facility features a wellness
space, a lactation space, and non-gendered restrooms, making it a
welcoming environment for all.
Sustainability is a crucial focus, evident in the LEED
Gold-certified green building design. Solar panels, daylighting
strategies, and shading systems reduce the need for artificial
lighting. The School of Data Science will receive 15% of its power
from solar energy provided by four arrays of solar photovoltaic
panels installed on the roof of its soon-to-open new home. This
aligns with UVA's Sustainability Plan, aiming for carbon neutrality
by 2030 and fossil fuel-free status by 2050.
About the University of Virginia
UVA is an iconic public institution of higher education, boasting
nationally ranked schools and programs, diverse and distinguished
faculty, a major academic medical center, and a proud history as a
renowned research university. The community and culture of the
University are enriched by active student self-governance,
sustained commitment to the arts, and a robust NCAA Division I
Athletics program. In its third century, the University of Virginia offers an affordable,
world-class education consistently ranked among the nation's best.
As one of the nation's leading public institutions, UVA pushes the
boundaries of what's possible – always in the name of the greater
good. One of the things that makes this possible is an unswerving
commitment to initiatives that grow, strengthen, and shape our
institution for the future. For more information visit:
https://www.virginia.edu.
About Gilbane Building Company
Gilbane provides a full slate of construction and
facilities-related services – from preconstruction services
planning and integrated consulting capabilities to comprehensive
construction management, general contracting, design-build, and
facility management services – for clients across various markets.
Founded in 1870 and still a privately held, family-owned company,
Gilbane has more than 45 office locations worldwide. For more
information, visit http://www.gilbaneco.com.
About Gilbane Richmond
Serving the Richmond community for
over 50 years as a construction industry leader, Gilbane has the
breadth of experience and local knowledge to partner with
corporations, institutions, schools and universities, government
agencies, and attractions in Virginia. Gilbane has constructed many of
Richmond's local iconic landmarks
and facilities, including the Virginia State Capitol Building
Restoration and Extension, the Altria Corporate Headquarters
Campus, the Virginia Commonwealth
University Institute of Contemporary Art, CenterStage and
Landmark Theatre, the Altria Theater Renovations as well as several
major renovation projects for Capitol One on their West Creek
campus.
Media Contact
Heidi K. Bodine, Gilbane Building
Company, 407-204-4023, HBodine@Gilbaneco.com, www.gilbaneco.com
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SOURCE Gilbane Building Company