The Jackson Community College (JCC) McDivitt Hall Science Lab Renovations project had a frugal $3.1 million budget, that included $1.5 million in labor costs and a very demanding 93-day construction period. Despite the numerous obstacles unknown and inherent in any renovation project, Moore Trosper Construction Company demonstrated that the project could be completed on time and on-budget.

The 28,000 square foot renovation encompassed three existing science wings consisting of laboratories and associated prep rooms, faculty offices and information technology areas. Renovation included four lecture halls, the addition of a cadaver laboratory, construction of a new elevator addition and electric substation. The facility also remained partially occupied during construction, adding additional complications for Moore Trosper Construction project managers.

A five-phase construction plan was devised to renovate "blocks" of rooms. Pre-inspections by all building code officials were made to identify potential issues which allowed work to continue in other parts of the project while concerns were rectified. Mechanical and electrical rough-in along with framing followed the demolition with the framers and wallboard installation immediately behind the rough-in inspections to allow for finishes as soon as possible. Giving consideration to the impact of the project on the Jackson community, Moore Trosper Construction agreed to use Jackson-area labor, subcontractors, and suppliers wherever possible.

Solid teamwork and communication between Jackson Community College, DSA Architects, Moore Trosper Construction, and subcontractors helped to keep the 5-phase schedule on course. Weekly team meetings involving all parties, including the major subcontractors, were held to identify potential barriers to the project schedule. All parties resolved to be "hyper-responsive" to the needs of the team including shop drawings, RFI's, proposal requests, change orders, and concerns of the College. This commitment helped to expedite nearly 90 RFI's and nearly 50 proposal request changes, while still satisfying the tough schedule.

Safety is always the highest priority, even when facing tight construction schedules. During the early stages of demolition, asbestos was identified in unexpected areas and all work was stopped in those areas until the matter was resolved. This caused down time in those areas, so other phases of the project were focused on and fast tracked. Concerns regarding the partial occupation of the building were addressed by both parties during the construction process. Moore Trosper Construction erected rigid construction barriers to prevent unauthorized access to construction zones and segregated an area in the parking lot to prevent unintentional pedestrian traffic through construction areas. Jackson Community College assigned security interns to "fire watch" to allow for the alarm system de-activation during construction which ensured the safety of the building occupants.

Commitment, teamwork and dedication are processes Moore Trosper Construction uses in every project. Putting them all together in exactly the right proportions is what resulted in the honor of receiving a Build Michigan Award, and what drives clients to return to our team of professionals for subsequent projects.