The University at Buffalo (UB) New York announced an ambitious $1.64 billion “building boom” involving new construction, renovation, and planned maintenance over the next decade.
University administrators are seeking to modernize buildings for today’s students and build new ones for growth in engineering, interdisciplinary research, artificial intelligence research and education, the university said in a September statement.
The planned construction encompasses major projects such as:
- Russell L. Agrusa Hall — A new engineering building on the North Campus funded by a $40 million gift from UB alumnus and retired software executive Russell Agrusa and the state. The project, which broke ground last month, will accommodate the growth of the School of Engineering and Applied Sciences, where enrollment has swelled 46% from 2013 to 2023.
- AI & Society Building — A new AI-powered multidisciplinary research, education, and entrepreneurship facility. The building will be used for research and education into “societal problems in a wide spectrum of sectors, ranging from medicine and finance to social justice and sustainable technologies.”
- Interdisciplinary Research Building — This 170,000-square-foot modern lab building will include new lab spaces for engineering, life sciences, physical sciences, and computer science. The university said it will share a location with the AI & Society Building.
- James Joyce Museum — A dedicated space in Abbott Library for the world’s most extensive collection of materials related to the Ulysses author.
- Renovations are planned or continue for the School of Education building and Student Union.
Construction Jobs
The decade-long construction effort will bring substantial labor opportunities for contractors and construction trades. Various skilled labor positions are expected in general construction, engineering, architecture, and project management. Sites and start dates for many of the projects are ongoing.
President Satish K. Tripathi says. “The significant additions to our living-learning environment and the striking renovations taking place across our campuses will profoundly impact our scholarly community, enhancing our students’ educational experience, the research we conduct, and our engagement with the communities we serve.
Sustainability
Sustainable development in the $1.65 billion project includes the following measures:
- Renewable Energy Sources: Integration of solar panels to supplement energy needs.
- Energy-Efficient Building Design: High-performance insulation and LED lighting.
- Water Conservation: Low-flow plumbing fixtures and rainwater harvesting for irrigation.
- Sustainable Materials: Use of recycled content and preference for locally sourced materials.
- Green Roofs and Landscaping: Installation of green roofs and native plant landscaping to enhance biodiversity.
- Waste Reduction: Construction waste management for recycling and deconstruction.
- Indoor Air Quality: Low-VOC paints and adequate ventilation systems.
- Sustainable Transportation Options: Development of bike lanes, pedestrian pathways, and electric vehicle (EV) charging stations.
- LEED Certification: The university will pursue Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design certification.
- Smart Building Technologies: Implementing automated systems to monitor and optimize energy use.
Community Engagement and Benefits
UB has committed to informing the community about construction progress over the next decade. To this end, they recently launched a website.
“Whether restoring historic buildings or adding new structures, the planned work will transform our campuses,” stated Laura E. Hubbard, vice president for finance and administration.
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