Improving Student Life
Framingham State University MSCBA House Doctor
Fitchburg, MA
Exploring Potential – Linsley Hall
D+W completed a comprehensive study, including configuration and use, and a site and building assessment with conceptual options and cost estimates. Framingham State University desired an approach in two parallel tracks: 1) review and identify immediate/short-term capital improvement needs, and 2) provide long-term recommendations to address building and programmatic needs. Included in this study was a review of the potential for additional revenue—through added beds, communal use spaces, and positioning the building to take advantage
of summer conference revenue (it is the only air-conditioned residence hall on campus). Completed in June 2017, the study identified and prioritized capital improvements to begin implementation in 2018.
A Five-Building Study
Concerned with the condition and non-compliance of the stairways in five residence halls on campus—Horace Mann, Peirce, O’Connor, Larned and Corinne Towers—FSU retained D+W to document and assess existing conditions, conduct a code analysis, and offer recommendations related to safety and maintenance. After evaluating different approaches for each condition with the University, D+W was further engaged to develop design and construction documents for the preferred approach. As part of the upgrade project, a new student lounge and common kitchen space was designed within Corinne Hall Towers. Bid documents were prepared and CA services were provided for a Summer 2018 project.
A Summer of Improvements
Several projects were successfully completed during the summers of 2018, 2019, and 2020 totaling over $1.3M in construction costs as part of our House Doctor contract. Each summer, improvements were made to multiple buildings depending on order of priority, and have included hvac, plumbing, electrical improvements, and architectural enhancements to improve the student life experience. These projects at four residence halls, a student center, and a conferencing center/inn transformed student lounges, upgraded stairways and flooring, added bottle fill stations and split AC units, and replaced kitchen grease traps. Exterior repairs addressing moisture-related issues were also made.
