Maximizing “Plan B”: Bridging the gap to new animal facilities

Demand for animal space is spiking now. When “new building” dreams are put on hold, what quick-turnaround options can deliver the capacity that expanding programs need? Ron Wilson and Duncan McIlvaine illustrate opportunities, decision making criteria, and tradeoffs for densification and capacity increase strategies at Penn State College of Medicine. They examine cascading impacts to consider, short-term and long-term solutions, pain points, and what is working. They detail space conversions, equipment and infrastructure requirements, design and operating considerations, and development of a strategic renovation plan.