I2SL Annual Conference: Pennovation Works - Sustainability Growing the University of Pennsylvania's Life Science Ecosystem

Pennovation project is a 484,000 sf state-of-the-art Class A core and shell laboratory, office and cGMP manufacturing facility that purposefully investigated and integrated sustainable design features to enhance the site’s unique opportunities.  The new facility design utilizes USGBC’s LEED Green Rating System as both a design guide and measure for achievement. This integrated approach entailed investigating the building aesthetics, site selection, material specification, cost, and engineering systems design.

This presentation will feature the detailed analysis concerning the project’s unique access to utilize Philadelphia’s District Steam utility. This analysis entails comparing the utilization of the District Steam heat source to a traditional natural gas boiler system and an all-electric system. In addition, this session will delve into the team’s processes and results directly related to the topics of site selection, biodiversity, embodied carbon (foundations, concrete, and steel), and heat recovery/pre-heat options. The presentation will also include the adaption of flexibility of sustainable utility systems to provide world-class manufacturing and laboratory spaces that can readily accommodate a variety of scientific endeavors.  Finally, the site enhancements to be shown will entail the creation of a pedestrian-oriented environment that leverages the Schuykill River Trail and visually connects the Pennovation Works campus to the University of Pennsylvania’s campus. 

Presenters:

• Frank Angelini, Principal - Life Science (Vanderweil Engineers)
• Harez Rasoul, Senior Project Manager (Longfellow Real Estate Partners)
• Robert Rumburg, AIA, Architect (Jacobs)