Pitt Trustees Approve $17.7 Million in Construction, Renovation Projects

The Property and Facilities Committee of Pitt’s Board of Trustees recently approved two new renovation and construction projects totaling $17.7 million and extended three leases on research, clinical, and office space. 

The projects are expected to create 95 construction jobs and 38 construction-related jobs—and generate $35,728 annually in property taxes for local government, said Property and Facilities Committee Chair John Pelusi in a report at the general board meeting in June.

An air-supported, domed field (pictured) is the highlight of the $13,226,080 project for the Trees Field Complex. It will be built to NCAA specifications for soccer and lacrosse and will enable athletes to play games regardless of weather conditions. All three fields in the complex will be fitted with new synthetic turf, and a new security kiosk and maintenance/storage building will be built. New fencing and lighting will be installed, and restrooms will be renovated. 

“Due to increased freshman enrollment and increasing diversity in sporting clubs, demand for athletic and intramural space has increased rapidly, and field space is at a premium,” said Pelusi. “This project is a result of collaboration between the Office of the Provost and Department of Athletics to maximize the availability of athletic and recreational areas on campus for both student-athletes and student intramural needs.”

The second project is a $4,501,760 renovation to convert lab and office space on the fifth floor of the west wing of Scaife Hall into state-of-the-art office space, consolidating student services, admissions and financial aid, student affairs, and other offices in the School of Medicine.

Separately, the full board ratified $11 million in construction projects first brought forth in March. The projects consist of renovations to the Cost Sports Center, Cathedral of Learning, Chevron Science Center, and Space Research Coordination Center. Those projects were recommended by the board’s Property and Facilities Committee and Budget Committee, respectively.