Project Overview

The Florida A&M University Student Housing Development project delivered a comprehensive 275,000 square foot residential complex accommodating 700 students in a modern living-learning environment. Completed in March 2021 with a construction cost of $12.4 million, this construction management initiative created an integrated residential experience with academic support spaces. What made this project particularly notable was its execution during the COVID-19 pandemic, requiring innovative virtual management approaches while still maintaining quality, schedule, and budget performance. Despite unprecedented challenges, the project team successfully delivered the facility on schedule and $2.3 million under budget, demonstrating exceptional adaptability and construction management expertise. The completed development enhances FAMU’s residential offerings while supporting the university’s commitment to student success through thoughtfully designed collaborative and study spaces.

Project Scope

• Construction of a 275,000 square foot student housing complex accommodating 700 residents

• Development of integrated academic support spaces including study lounges and collaboration areas

• Creation of dedicated meeting facilities supporting student interaction and programming

• Implementation of comprehensive site development with utility infrastructure

• Construction of a 250-space parking facility serving residential needs

• Delivery of preconstruction services including budgeting, scheduling, and value engineering

• Performance of constructability analysis ensuring efficient implementation

• Provision of technical oversight for complex site development

• Implementation of quality assurance protocols ensuring compliance with higher education standards

• Development and execution of virtual project management systems during COVID-19 restrictions

Key Features

• Integrated Living-Learning Environment: Purpose-designed spaces combining residential and academic support functions

• Collaborative Study Areas: Dedicated spaces fostering student interaction and academic engagement

• Modern Residential Accommodations: Contemporary living spaces for 700 university students

• Academic Support Infrastructure: Study lounges and meeting facilities supporting educational success

• Comprehensive Parking Solution: 250-space parking facility integrated with the residential complex

• Digital Project Management Systems: Innovative virtual management protocols enabling pandemic-era construction

• Infrastructure Integration: Carefully planned utility systems supporting the substantial residential development

• Value-Engineered Solutions: Strategic design and construction approaches generating significant cost savings

• COVID-19 Adaptation Measures: Special protocols ensuring worker safety and project continuity during the pandemic

• University Mission Alignment: Facility design supporting FAMU’s commitment to student success and development

Construction Approach

1. Virtual Project Management: Implementation of comprehensive digital communication and management systems enabling remote oversight

2. Structured Communication Protocols: Regular virtual stakeholder meetings and detailed reporting systems ensuring information flow

3. Pandemic-Adapted Construction: Modified site operations and safety protocols responding to COVID-19 requirements

4. Supply Chain Management: Proactive procurement strategies mitigating pandemic-related material and equipment delays

5. Value Engineering: Systematic cost control measures yielding substantial budget savings without compromising quality

6. Quality Assurance: Rigorous inspection and testing protocols ensuring compliance with institutional standards despite pandemic challenges