THE OPPORTUNITY

In order to efficiently utilize existing infrastructure to its potential, Rutgers University (RU) contracted with PS&S to assess the current physical conditions of the Waksman Institute for Microbiology on the Busch Campus.

The Waksman Institute is an internationally renowned premier research institute. Over the years, the disparity between the labs, finishes, and MEP systems between the original building and its later additions had grown. Rutgers University sought to identify areas of necessary improvement to present an attractive world-class facility that would attract students and faculty alike.

THE CHALLENGE

The laboratory facility was large, complex, and was comprised of several additions made over its 70 years of service. The assessment study focused on: The original building (1951), a 60,000 sf 3-story structure; The Braun Building (1964 with a 1999 addition), a 14,800 sf 2-story addition; and the Waksman Addition (1986), a 40,000 sf, 3-story structure.

THE PS&S SOLUTION

PS&S started the project by meeting with Rutgers University facilities and maintenance personnel, and with staff representatives to discuss the assessment process and the general conditions of the site and each property. PS&S conducted several site surveys to perform visual observations to evaluate the property from an architectural, structural, mechanical, electrical, and plumbing standpoint. Based upon the information gathered, we prepared a comprehensive report summarizing the conditions and deficiencies categorized into code compliance, health & safety, facility improvements, site improvements, energy efficiency, barrier-free/accessibility, and suggested testing/analysis. These deficiencies were then prioritized, with Rutgers University’s input, to identify short-, mid-, or long-term items. Rough order of magnitude pricing was provided for each observed condition and these costs were further broken down by building, priority, and discipline, and projected forward for the next 10 years. The final report included summaries by discipline, narrative descriptions of the observed conditions, and photographic documentation.