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Skanska Secures Major Contract for New Engineering Building at Virginia Tech

Skanska, the respected construction and development firm, has officially entered into a supplemental contract with Virginia Tech to embark on a significant new project: the construction of a state-of-the-art College of Engineering building. This contract is valued at an impressive $240 million, roughly equivalent to SEK 2.5 billion, and marks a pivotal moment in Virginia Tech’s ongoing expansion efforts, particularly for their engineering programs.

The project will see the construction of the new Mitchell Hall, an engineering building designed to accommodate the modern demands of education in the fields of aerospace and ocean engineering, chemical engineering, mechanical engineering, computer science, and engineering education. The initiative is not merely about erecting a new structure; it is about creating an environment conducive to innovative learning and research, equipped with high-performance classrooms, specialized instructional laboratories, advanced research facilities, and collaborative spaces.

The site preparation for this ambitious project has already commenced with the demolition of Virginia Tech's outdated Randolph Hall, which spans an area of 15,400 square meters, to make way for the new facility. Furthermore, the plans involve the renovation of certain areas within the existing Hancock Hall, effectively integrating new construction with the historical architecture of the campus.

Once completed, this five-story, approximately 28,500 square meter building will be among the largest on the Blacksburg campus. The integration of these diverse engineering disciplines under one roof will not only foster collaboration among students and faculty but will also position Virginia Tech as a leader in engineering education. One of the standout features of this new facility will be its close proximity to one of the largest university-owned wind tunnels in the United States, which will undeniably add to the unique learning opportunities for students.

The project is set to begin competitive construction efforts in the spring of 2024, with an anticipated completion date in the fall of 2028. The timeline demonstrates a strong commitment to delivering a comprehensive educational structure that meets the burgeoning needs of the engineering field.

Such investments reflect Skanska’s dedication to enhancing educational infrastructures across the U.S. and reinforcing the vital role that engineering education plays in fostering innovation and development in various industries. Additionally, the experience gained from executing this project is expected to catalyze further investments in educational facilities and projects nationwide.

For more information on this significant development, media representatives can reach out to Ashley Jeffery, Skanska USA's Communications Director at +1 813 459 3682, or Andreas Joons, Press Officer at Skanska Group, at +46 (0)10 449 04 94. This expansive project marks a new chapter not only for Skanska but also for Virginia Tech, as they enhance their offerings and expand their reach within the realms of engineering education.

The commitment demonstrated by both parties involved signals a robust future for engineering disciplines at educational institutions, ensuring that they are well-equipped to provide top-notch education and resources for upcoming generations of engineers. This collaboration highlights the essential partnership between construction firms and educational institutions, promising developments that will serve students and the greater community alike.