Tradeline, Inc. filters and categorizes new-construction and industry news from regional and professional journals across the country. Here you will find new projects, products, and regulatory updates.
Industry News
Select Agent and Biosafety Legislation Proposed in Congress
Two select agent and biosafety bills were proposed in Congress in February of 2009. In the Senate, the Select Agent Program and Biosafety Improvement Act of 2009 would monitor federal oversight of biocontainment laboratories, improve training, and create a system for accident reporting. The act would also provide funding for the U.S. Select Agent Program.
University of Central Oklahoma Builds Center for Transformative Learning
The University of Central Oklahoma is building the $8.5 million Center for Transformative Learning in Edmond. Designed by Frankfurt Short Bruza Associates, the 33,000-sf facility will house progressive instruction in 11 classrooms, an outdoor classroom, and informal learning spaces. The facility will promote interactive and collaborative learning instead of lecture based pedagogy. Completion is slated for May of 2010.
Methodist Hospital Opens Expanded Emergency Department
Methodist Hospital opened its expanded $38.7 million emergency department in Sacramento, Calif., in late February of 2008. The completed 21,876-sf project is three times the size of the previous ER and can treat 75,000 patients annually. Bed count has been increased from 15 to 29. The duration of construction was two years. The facility features a decontamination suite, three critical resuscitation rooms, and a new patient waiting room.
Abbott Laboratories Opens Pediatric Nutrition Manufacturing Facility
Abbott Laboratories opened its $300 million pediatric nutrition manufacturing plant in February of 2009 in Tuas South, Singapore. Located in Tuas Biomedical Park 2, the 5,000-sm facility will accommodate 300 employees. Abbott is also planning to open a $20 million nutrition science R&D center at Biopolis, where it opened its first Asian pharmaceutical R&D facility in January of 2009.
Arizona State University Constructs Nursing Education Building
Arizona State University is building a second nursing education building in Phoenix. The $223 million project will provide a 200-seat auditorium, research facilities, and five classrooms. The building is created in partnership with the City of Phoenix, enabling city business to occupy the top two floors of the five-story building. Construction began on the project in April of 2008. LEED Silver sustainable design certification will be sought for the facility.