Administration

Renovations planned for Thomas, Greenberg, Grange buildings

Fenske Laboratory, located near the intersection of Shortlidge and Curtin roads. Partial renovations are planned for Thomas and Greenberg buildings to create classroom and office swing space during the construction of a new Chemical and Biomedical Engineering Building, to replace Fenske Laboratory.  Credit: Patrick Mansell / Penn StateCreative Commons

UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa. — Partial renovations are planned for Thomas and Greenberg buildings to create classroom and office swing space during the construction of a new Chemical and Biomedical Engineering Building on the University Park campus. The renovations will accommodate faculty, staff, and graduate and undergraduate students while the new construction is taking place.

"The adjustments will allow for expansion to meet projected growth in the chemical and biomedical engineering departments without disruption," said Senior Vice President for Finance and Business David Gray. "Renovations to the Thomas and Greenberg buildings will provide continuity in order to maintain the current level of research and teaching in those departments during the construction of a new state-of-the-art facility."

The $4.8 million renovations will add computer labs, office space and an undergraduate chemistry lab to Thomas Building and modified biology labs, office space, a conference room and a new elevator to Greenberg Building.

The new chemical and biomedical engineering facility — which will replace Fenske Laboratory, located near the intersection of Shortlidge and Curtin roads — will enhance the national and international standing of both the chemical and biomedical engineering departments, as well as help them embrace future projected growth. The facility will include a new 188,000-square-foot building to house classrooms, a large lecture hall and offices for the chemical and biomedical engineering departments. In addition, laboratory suites will support research clusters and a sharing of resources.

Grange building exterior Credit: Patrick Mansell / Penn StateCreative Commons

Changes also will be coming to the first floor and basement of the Grange Building. A $1 million renovation is planned to better serve the needs of the Division of Undergraduate Studies, including a new conference room, restrooms, offices, and student space and waiting areas.

Last Updated May 17, 2016