Renovation to Frank C. Peters Building Takes Shape
Wilfrid Laurier University’s three-storey, 76,000 square-foot Frank C. Peters building was originally constructed and completed by Ball Construction in 1980. It was home to the university’s School of Business and Economics. At almost 40 years old, the aging facility was overdue for some major upgrades and renovations. Ball Construction is acting as construction manager for the building’s grand renovation.
The project scope includes removal of asbestos-containing material, replacement of major mechanical and electrical systems, floor plan redesign, and reconfiguration of classroom spaces as well as installation of energy-efficient windows. As with any renovation work, there are many unknowns once construction starts. Fortunately, we have found economical solutions to these issues through collaboration with the prime consultant, Perkins+Will, mechanical and electrical consultants, Vanderwestern Rutherford, structural engineers, Mantecon Partners, and representatives from Wilfrid Laurier. Construction is progressing smoothly much to the satisfaction of Laurier’s project manager, Brent Carpenter.
This project has advanced during the school year on a busy, occupied campus site, and as safety champions, Ball Construction is taking every precaution and due diligence to ensure the safety of all faculty, students, visitors as well as nearby pedestrians. We have performed major construction renovations on many occupied sites and are aware of the challenges. We are confident that Laurier will have an accident-free site through to completion.
Construction is nearing 70 percent completion, and we are progressing nicely with mechanical and electrical installation in the penthouse, putting in place flooring in the upper floors as well as millwork. Glass office fronts are going in and exposed ceilings are being painted. Our subtrades are performing to our expected standards, allowing the advancement of the schedule to meet our deadline for occupancy by the end of June.
The completion of this exciting project will allow for new space for new users, and the building will be the Waterloo campus and home to programs in arts, music, science, education and graduate studies while remaining as the School of Business and Economics.
