Series of moves to renovated space under discussion

A preliminary plan to phase in a series of moves will create new and renovated space for biology, mathematics, physics, the Institute of Materials Sciences, and University Information Technology Services without any department moving more than once.

The plan was outlined to the Capital Projects Planning Advisory Committee in May, and because it was received favorably, it will be explored in detail over the next few months.

The plan, which retains the former warehouse building near the Health Services facility, would accomplish a series of renovations at a lower cost and more quickly than replacing Torrey Life Sciences with a building of equal or larger size, said Provost Peter J. Nicholls.

Both the warehouse and the new Torrey building could be done simultaneously.

It would also mean that no department would move more than once.

This is especially important, since many of the departments involved have large and complex labs, he said.

The plan’s focus initially would be the former warehouse building, which was built so solidly that two floors can be added without major structural renovations.