The University of Akron Spicer Hall

The University of Akron is a vibrant community within metropolitan Akron, with over 80 buildings on 218 acres. Home to approximately 26,000 students, the university offers over 300 academic degree programs. To accommodate the ever-expanding student enrollment, the university embarked on a construction project for a new residence hall on the corner of Spicer and Vine Streets. The project was at a breakneck pace as the university had to accommodate student housing needs at the beginning of the next school year. As the structural engineer, SMBH was responsible for designing all structural systems, including drilled-pier concrete foundations, reinforced masonry walls, and five stories of precast concrete plank floors topped by a light-gage metal truss roof system.

Because of scheduling requirements, SMBH had to complete the foundation design at a very early stage. Construction on the foundation began before the final design on the upper stories was completed. Because of early planning and coordination between disciplines, the foundation installation proceeded smoothly and with minimum changes despite the challenging timetable. Kenmore Construction was very involved during the design phases. Their involvement influenced the structure's design, which made construction go smoothly. The project was completed within the budget and in time for the students to move in without delay.