University of Rhode Island Breaks Ground on Engineering Complex

The University of Rhode Island broke ground in April of 2017 on a $125 million engineering complex in Kingston. Designed by Ballinger to foster interdisciplinary collaboration and innovation, the 190,000-sf facility will provide open and flexible teaching, learning, and research space for seven engineering programs. The project will feature three large active-learning classrooms, four teaching labs, four research labs, two computer labs, a robotics lab, a 24/7 student makerspace, capstone project areas, and two wings of offices. The multidisciplinary building will be constructed with a unique truss support system that eliminates the need for interior columns, and will include vibration-mitigated suites for advanced instrumentation. The project team includes associate architect DBVW, structural engineering consultant Odeh Engineers, construction manager Dimeo Construction, and owner's representative Hill International. Completion is expected in summer of 2019.