Center for Biomedical Research Construction Begins

The groundbreaking ceremony for the UNE Pickus Center for Biomedical Research was held on site at the Biddeford campus on October 7th. Wright-Ryan first submitted a proposal for this job during the fall of 2004. After a long pre-construction period, work has begun and the project has a proposed completion date of August 2008. The 21,000-square-foot, three-floor biomedical research facility will house teams of scientists and will ensure that UNE will attract and keep a top-flight faculty that is dedicated to medical education and advancing the practice of medicine. The facility will give students greater opportunities to experience research as part of their medical studies.  Governor Baldacci was on hand to speak about the importance of the research facility and the significance of the Center for continuing to make job opportunities for the state of Maine.

LEED Home Breaks Ground

The LEED home is approximately 3,200 square feet and will include 4 bedrooms and a two-car garage.  The house will be framed with FSC Certified lumber and will incorporate Cold Climate framing techniques as taught by Joseph Lstiburek, Ph.D., P.Eng. 

More features include Insulated Concrete Forms (ICF) and Warmboard which is a one step application for the radiant flooring system.  The drywall is recycled and we will use low VOC paints and adhesives and a cellulose insulation.  The tile is made from recycled glass and doors from strawboard.  Our Millwork Division will be making the kitchen and trim.  I can't wait to see what interesting products they use!

Currently, the road is being made to the site and foundation work will begin next week.  Construction is expected to be complete by September 2006.  My plan is to keep a running progress report of this project.  Visit this site often!