The Graduate School of Public Health is building for a healthier world. A new laboratory facility and upgrades to existing classroom and administrative spaces will help us recruit and retain the best faculty and students and solidify our position as a global leader in public health research, education, and practice.
The Need Project Scope Timeline Funding Donate
The Need
GSPH’s Parran and Crabtree halls were built in 1957 and 1966, respectively, and have not been renovated since. They are energy inefficient, need constant maintenance, and don’t accommodate the needs of the modern laboratory scientist. The buildings also don’t comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act.
GSPH plans to construct 58,000 square feet of laboratory facilities and renovate Crabtree and Parran halls to create modern classrooms and common areas. The new labs will reflect the quality of research conducted at GSPH. The renovated space will contain smart classrooms, modern computer technology, and inviting common spaces that enhance the learning and teaching environments.
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Left: A brand new Parran Hall, circa 1958 (photo: University of Pittsburgh archives); Center: Thomas Parran; Right: James Crabtree. For more historic images of Parran and Crabtree halls, visit our photo gallery. |
But it is not just the scientists who will benefit from a modern facility. Students and teachers can both be more efficient and productive when they have the latest technologies at their fingertips. Smart classrooms, modern computer labs, and open, inviting common spaces where students and professors can meet informally and create cross-disciplinary connections will enhance the learning and teaching environments.
Project Scope
GSPH's construction and renovation plan has three phases.
Phase I: Construction of four-story laboratory pavilion
Phase II: Infrastructure upgrade of Parran Hall and Crabtree Hall and programmatic renovations of Parran and Crabtree
Phase I, the lab pavilion, will consist of approximately 58,000 gross square feet and will be built on the corner of Parran Hall where the G23 auditorium now stands. The pavilion will include space for research labs, a 215-seat auditorium, centralized freezer storage, and kitchenettes on every floor for staff and faculty break space. This project is expected to cost $32 million.
The design team for the project consists of Renaissance 3 Architects of Pittsburgh and Wilson Architects of Boston. Both firms have expertise in phased construction and renovation that will minimize inconvenience to students, faculty, and staff during the project. Take a peek at the design plans by viewing our photo gallery of architectural renderings, and track progress with our construction webcam.
Phase II, the renovation of Parran and Crabtree halls, will remove asbestos and replace the existing heating, ventilation, cooling, and electrical systems in Parran and Crabtree halls.
In addition, the programmatic and community space renovations, will modernize the facilities by increasing open meeting environments, upgrading classrooms and locating them together rather than scattered throughout the buildings, and reconfiguring former laboratory spaces into administrative offices.
The total cost for Phase II is estimated to be $55 million. The University provided $40 million and $15 million will need to be raised through the Building a Healthier World capital campaign.
All phases of the project will strive for the highest possible Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) certification level.
Timeline
The approximate timeline for these phases is:
| Construction of new lab pavilion begins..................... | fall 2011 |
| Lab pavilion completed............................................ | summer 2013 |
| Occupancy of lab pavilion........................................ | fall 2013 |
| Renovations of Parran and Crabtree begin................ | fall 2013 |
| Completion of Parran and Crabtree renovations........ | spring 2016 |
Funding
In 2006 the University allocated $40 million for the renovation of Parran and Crabtree halls. In 2009, the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania granted $32 million for the construction of the new lab pavilion. The $15 million necessary to complete Phase II is being raised through the Building for a Healthier World capital campaign.
Make a Gift
Learn how you can be a part of GSPH history and leave a lasting legacy for yourself or your family. Donate now to the GSPH capital campaign: Building for a Healthier World.