October 2024

University of Colorado – Boulder Jennie Smoly Caruthers Biotechnology Building

The Jennie Smoly Caruthers Biotechnology Building at the University of Colorado Boulder represents a groundbreaking achievement in modern construction, thanks to JE Dunn Construction’s pioneering use of electronic document management and their exceptional collaborative approach.

The 331,000-square-foot, five-story flex lab and academic building epitomizes the cutting-edge integration of biochemistry and engineering programs. This state-of-the-art facility features highly efficient and flexible labs, designed with the latest technology to foster interdisciplinary research and collaboration. Additionally, the building supports the long-term growth of CU’s engineering, biochemistry and systems biotechnology efforts, while also serving educational purposes with its auditorium, seminar rooms, classrooms, computer rooms and teaching labs. Other amenities, such as a gallery, café, and conference rooms, are thoughtfully organized around an interior “Main Street” concept, enhancing the building’s communal atmosphere.

One of the unique aspects of this project, as described by Mike Early, who served as a document manager on the project, was the unprecedented use of electronic document management. This approach was a first for JE Dunn and played a significant role in the project’s success. During the construction, the team managed to put up approximately $140 million worth of work with minimal rework—a feat almost unheard of in the industry. This efficiency was largely attributed to the daily updates of construction documents, ensuring that all team members, from management to subcontractors, worked off the most current information each day.

The economic context also played a crucial role. The project commenced during a downturn in the economy, leading to a favorable buyout which allowed for the inclusion of additional programs not part of the original plan. This financial flexibility pleased the owner from the outset and contributed to a smooth construction process.

The collaborative atmosphere among the JE Dunn management team, the design team, and the ownership group was a hallmark of this project. This camaraderie extended to the trades, creating a pleasant and efficient working environment. Grant funding from the National Institutes of Health (NIH) further added a layer of complexity, necessitating adherence to Davis-Bacon wage rules for specific laboratory spaces. Despite the logistical challenges, including wage disparities among workers performing similar tasks, the project proceeded smoothly.

Use of Bluebeam software to manage construction documents electronically allowed the entire construction team to access up-to-date documents and navigate through extensive plan sets efficiently. The electronic management of documents eliminated the need for bulky paper plans and facilitated quick updates, which were crucial given the project’s complexity. For instance, the project averaged a new sheet of drawings every 53 minutes and a change to the documents every eight minutes. Despite this high frequency of updates, the team managed to incorporate these changes seamlessly into the construction process.

Moreover, the project benefited from the construction of a fourth wing, initially not planned to be built beyond its foundations. Due to the favorable buyout, the complete shell of this wing was constructed, significantly simplifying future development and tenant improvements. This achievement within the original budget underscored the project’s financial and operational efficiency.

The collaborative environment, efficient processes, and innovative use of technology made the Jennie Smoly Caruthers Biotechnology Building not only a state-of-the-art facility but also a model of modern construction excellence.

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