Cal Poly Humboldt Plans Engineering & Technology Building

Cal Poly Humboldt is planning to construct the $100 million Engineering & Technology Building in Arcata, Calif. Designed by AC Martin to promote experiential learning, the 74,000-sf facility will feature multipurpose labs and classrooms equipped with adaptable room technologies for optimal programmatic flexibility. The three-story structure will offer a range of research venues, collaboration spaces, and gathering areas, as well as an interdisciplinary maker space that opens onto an outdoor fabrication zone. The transformative development will house the School of Engineering while also serving the entire campus community with modern conference rooms, faculty offices, and a student support center.

Mass timber beams sourced from the Pacific Northwest will frame extensive glazing that puts science on display. The net-zero carbon project will incorporate highly efficient MEP systems, as well as a rooftop photovoltaic array that will be integrated into a planned campus microgrid. Delivered by design-build contractor Swinerton with fs3|Hodges as construction manager, the Engineering & Technology Building is expected to achieve LEED Gold certification. Research Facilities Design (RFD) is acting as laboratory design consultant to AC Martin, and Ascent Environmental is providing consultation services in relation to the California Environmental Quality Act. Groundbreaking will commence in summer of 2024 with occupancy expected in fall of 2026.