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Nick J. Rahall, II Technology Center
Renovation/New Construction
Concord University
Athens, WV
Project Manager: Joel Young
jyoung@swopeco.com
Superintendent: Ron Phillips
Project Size: 46,000 ft²
Contract Amount: $9.5 million
The Nick J. Rahall, II Technology Center includes a renovation of approximately 6,000 sq ft of Concord University’s White Hall with an attached new construction totaling 46,000 sq ft. With intricate finish work and sophisticated electrical and mechanical systems, the Technology Center is one of Swope Construction’s more complex projects. The Center will house a local business incubator, campus security, hi-tech classroom space and several administrative offices.
Built in 1939, the remaining portion of White Hall has been refurbished and integrated into the new construction of the Technology Center. The restoration included preserving existing fireplaces, replacing slate flooring and refurbishing plaster ceilings and matching the elaborate trim work.
The new construction opens to an impressive foyer with a custom-made solid-cherry desk with solid surface counter tops. Matching wooden framed windows and doors are found throughout the building. The visual showcase of the project is the modern auditorium on the third floor. The tiered auditorium includes a unique curve grid metal ceiling.
The project also includes “smart” classrooms which can be controlled through a computer including room lights, shades and projector screens. Two of the classrooms are separated by a moveable partition to allow double classroom space if needed.
Serving as the hub of technology for Concord University, the building will house the campuses servers and complete IT department. The most advanced data cable runs throughout the building currently and the rooms have data access panels that will allow for easy upgrades in the future. To protect the servers, the building is outfitted with a back-up generator.
Built for durability, the building’s rubber slate roofing is covered by a 50-year warranty. It is made from recycled rubber that is colored and shaped to resemble slate.