Technology Center

Technology Center

Project Description

Progress Reports

Project Images

Frequently Asked Questions and Answers

1. Why construct a new Technology Center?
For nearly a decade, GRCC has been impacted by an increasing need for facilities that support its emerging computer technology based programs. Analytical tools such as the Capital Analysis Model (CAM) formula indicated space shortfalls in these program areas and subsequently identified the requirement for a study to address these needs.

A Pre-design Study was conducted in the summer of 2001 by a Pre-Design Team consisting of GRCC instructors, administrative and facilities personnel, and a consultant team from S. M. Stemper Architects. It was determined that adequate space and technology to accommodate the explosive demand for training in information technology was badly needed. The College is at maximum utilization of its existing facilities and is facing a critical shortage of open computer labs and technology instruction space. As population and industry continue to grow in the Puget Sound region, a strong ripple effect is being felt by the College to meet the growing demands for technology training. The dramatic increase in enrollment, the resultant sharp decrease in the availability of computer lab space, and the addition of new technology courses and programs to meet demand prompted the college to seek funding for a new facility. During the study, a detailed analysis was made to identify the scope of the project and the program needs to be addressed by this proposed facility.

The proposed new facility is not only identified in the College's 10-year plan and included in the current master plan, but it is also a key element in the College's master facilities plan. The Pre-design Study outlined the need for this facility and set parameters for its program design, budget, and schedule.

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2. Who is represented on the design team?
The Technology Center Design Team is comprised of GRCC instructors, administrative staff, and facilities personnel, and a consultant team from S.M. Stemper Architects.

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3. What is the timeline and scope of this project?
For an up-to-date projected timeline, please refer to the most recent Progress Report.

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4. How was the site selected?
The Pre-design Study allowed team members and stakeholders to review some key elements in the College's developing master plan. A major institutional master planning decision was made in the proposed siting of this facility to locate it on the athletic field situated just north of the existing Science, Math & Technology (SMT) building. A primary advantage of this decision is that there would be adequate space to locate an adjacent replacement facility for the College's aging science complex. The utility infrastructure is directly available at the site and concurrent site development for both facilities offers a number of cost and development advantages. Additionally, the programs that are planned in these facilities are well situated for related studies and faculty/staff support in the adjacent SMT building. Another advantage to this location includes the reutilization of existing developed acreage, supporting the College's goal of preserving the natural campus environment and incorporating achievable elements of sustainable design.

The major disadvantage of utilizing this site for the new Technology Center and Science Building is the loss of the athletic field. Replacing the track function and playing field will be aggressively addressed in the developing master plan through future campus design options.

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5. Will environmental concerns be addressed?
GRCC is blessed with a beautiful natural setting and a statement will be made in sustainable design along with the assumed energy conservation features it should achieve. A key component of the pre-design study was an effort to define sustainable design concepts that are appropriate for this project. the resulting design maximizes sustainable design principles to reduce energy consumption through the incorporation of natural lighting and natural ventilation systems; allowing the reuse of rainwater water; and eliminating VOC (Volatile Organic Compounds) materials.

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6. Will I have the opportunity for input?
You may submit your questions regarding this project by sending an e-mail to Sam Ball.

Our project team will review the questions and submit replies to the inquirer.

In an effort to keep you informed as to the plans and progress of the project, this website will be periodically updated.

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