Project Description
The University of Tampa (UTampa) built the new 10-story Grand Center on its campus, it’s largest building yet. The building features three main components: a residence hall for over 600 students, academic and student support facilities including faculty offices, classrooms, study spaces, and offices for various departments, and a parking facility for over 400 vehicles.
UTampa aimed to open the building by the start of the 2024 fall semester. Meeting this goal required overcoming unique logistical challenges related to delivery and installation, as operating within an active campus presented specific roadblocks, including restricted site access. Operating within an active campus environment presented unique logistical challenges, including restricted site access. SurePods collaborated closely with The Beck Group to manage crane time, coordinate deliveries, and ensure smooth installation. Further, SurePods meticulously planned to load pods during UTampa’s Winter Intercession to minimize disruptions, safety measures, job hazard analyses, and ongoing communication, fostering a safe and effective worksite.
DESIGN-ASSIST APPROACH
SurePods’ design-assist approach further enhanced the project’s success. Using LOD 450 model, SurePods worked with UTampa to finalize bathroom specifications that met all design requirements and university guidelines. The 3D model served as a virtual prototype, allowing thorough review before fabrication began. Once approved, a physical mock-up was built at SurePods’ Orlando facility for stakeholders to review, ensuring the final design met all expectations. The mock-up also underwent ship testing to confirm it was suitable for prefabrication and transportation, contributing to an optimized construction process and timely project completion.
