The University of Nebraska Board of Regents voted Thursday to modernize and correct maintenance issues in the existing UNMC College of Dentistry building on the University of Nebraska-Lincoln’s East Campus.
Under the $16.6 million project proposal, $14 million will be allocated to building modernization, and $2.6 million will correct infrastructure issues with the roof, masonry and leaks. The building was built in 1967 and was last expanded in 1998. It is currently home to approximately 550 faculty, staff and students, as well as 200 patients per day in the Lincoln clinic.
"This project will enhance the college’s recent $6 million renovations, which included creating a state-of-the-art simulation laboratory, updating classrooms, adding an iWall classroom and enhancing community spaces," said Janet M. Guthmiller, DDS, PhD, dean of the UNMC College of Dentistry.
"These improvements will help us continue to provide a superior learning and working environment for our college community and enhance our efforts to recruit and retain outstanding faculty, staff and students," Dr. Guthmiller said.
Said UNMC Chancellor Jeffrey P. Gold, MD, "As UNMC continues providing state-of-the-art education to its dental students, including the use of cutting-edge technology such as the simulation laboratory, it’s important that the physical facility keep pace. The regents' action today ensures that our students will be learning in an up-to-date, inviting and efficient facility."
The project will modernize key programmatic areas, including updating the facility’s auditorium to address Americans with Disabilities Act requirements. The project will improve student and faculty areas, including office spaces and the student lounge, to create more modern, collaborative and motivating spaces.
Research laboratories will be reconfigured to allow for recruitment of additional research faculty, improve collaboration among investigators and maximize existing space.
Restrooms will be updated to create ADA accessibility wherever possible. Mechanical, electrical and site improvements also will be undertaken to improve energy efficiency of the building, occupant safety and visual appeal.
Following approval, the process will begin to select a design and construction management team with a projected project completion date of December 2024.