Benedictine University’s Dan and Ada Rice Center is among Chicago’s best building renovation projects, according to the Chicago Building Congress, an area design/build trade association.
The University was named a runner-up for the Chicago Building Congress’s 2013 Merit Award in the “Best Rehab Construction” category at the organization’s annual awards program.
The award recognizes and celebrates the collaborative efforts of building and the impact those efforts have on the community. Project submissions are judged on distinctiveness, functionality or innovation of design, quality of construction, impact on the community and safety record.
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Collaboration between the University’s Campus Planning, Design and Construction Management team and partners DLR Group and International Contractors Inc., (ICI) was instrumental in achieving this year’s award, according to Charlie Gregory, Benedictine’s executive vice president.
“I am very proud of DLR, ICI and our team for their insights, vision, hard work and overall creativity for making the Rice Center a showcase, as well as a major contributor to our recruiting and retention efforts as a place that attracts, entertains and serves all members of our community,” Gregory said.
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The center, which was first constructed in 1976, underwent a $6.7 million renovation in 2010 to upgrade the facility and provide more amenities for students as well as increased opportunities for onsite intercollegiate athletic events.
Renovation work, which was completed in fall 2011, included the installation of a new hardwood floor, giant scoreboards and island baskets in the basketball/volleyball arena and the installation of a new 1,700-seat telescopic bleacher system. The project also incorporated a new 11,000-square-foot fitness center with a dedicated cardio and circuit training space, featuring elliptical trainers, treadmills, stationary bicycles, a private dance/exercise studio and an advanced training facility with hot and cold tubs.
