The University of Rhode Island (URI) broke ground in March 2007 on the Center for Biotechnology and Life Sciences in Kingston, R.I. Funded in part by a $1 million donation from Amgen, the facility will serve as a major center of education and research that will drive economic development in the state's growing biotechnology industry. The architect for the center is Payette Associates of Boston, and Providence-based Gilbane Building Co. will serve as the construction manager. When completed in 2009, the $60 million, 140,000-square-foot facility will house modern classrooms, high-technology specialty laboratories, support areas for DNA sequencing, faculty offices, incubator space for technology commercialization, a 100-seat classroom and a two-story, 300-seat auditorium, all to meet the needs of URI's growing environmental biotechnology and biological sciences programs.
The center will feature a staircase that represents the DNA double-helix. Designed to meet LEED® sustainable design criteria, the building will feature an energy efficient heating and cooling system, a ‘green’ roof that is partially covered in vegetation that will serve to filter pollutants and reduce heating and cooling needs, a storm water treatment feature, and environmentally friendly building materials. The building is being funded with both public and private monies from $50 million in state bonds and $10 million in private donations. The Center for Biotechnology and Life Sciences will be the anchor of the North District of URI’s Kingston Campus, which will also be the future home of new buildings for the University’s pharmacy, nursing and chemistry programs.
