CHICAGO, IL (May 15, 2000) The Meyne Company recently completed interior construction of the new USITE/Crerar Cluster, a high-tech computer lab at The University of Chicago. The facility, located in the lower level of the John C. Crerar Library, is considered the first of its kind in the country and may serve as a model for the next generation of computer labs.

Inspired by the University’s academic practice of small-group interaction and collaborative research, the space is designed to provide groups, as well as individuals, with a flexible, comfortable work environment. The facility features movable work stations to accommodate different needs and work styles, a seminar room with data projection capabilities, and a cyber café for short-term computing activities like e-mail correspondence and Web browsing.

The fully renovated space is equipped with 110 new computers, 500 data jacks for network access, and various operating systems. The more than $1 million project is the result of a cooperative effort between The University of Chicago Libraries, the Division of Biological Sciences, and Networking Services & Information Technologies to develop a space which best accommodates the varied technology requirements of students, professors and researchers.

Construction for the 5,500 SF buildout began in December 1999 with substantial completion achieved in April 2000. The construction team included Ray Wojkovich, Project Manager, and Dave Wagner, Superintendent. The architect for the project was Chicago-based VMC Architects, Inc. whose design team was composed of Michael Vasilko, President, AIA; Mark Cheng, Vice President, AIA; and Martha Strong of Strong Design Consultants.

Grumman/Butkus Associates and Dickerson Engineering, Inc. were the mechanical and electrical engineers, respectively. Instrumental in the planning of the facility was The University of Chicago's Chad Kainz, Director of Instructional Technology, Networking Services, and Information Technologies.

Established in 1906, The Meyne Company is a division of Bulley & Andrews, LLC one of the oldest general contractors in Chicago. For more information contact Mark Evans or Sloan Watson at (312) 207-2100.