Frostburg, MD – R. G. Vanderweil Engineers LLP has collaborated with Ayers Saint Gross Architects and Planners of Baltimore to complete the design of a $45-million classroom facility at Frostburg State University in Frostburg, Maryland.
The Center for Communications and Information Technology (CCIT) is designed for mathematics, computer science,
graphic design and mass communication curriculum. It will house the University’s radio station studio, along with the
television and multimedia broadcasting studios. In addition, the new center will include a planetarium that will be used
as a multi-media learning center and be open to the public.
The new 127,000 sf structure is located in a prime location on the campus, near the performing arts center, science
center and student union. It is designed to act as a hub at the center of campus, offering a pathway through a light-
filled, south-facing courtyard to surrounding buildings.
The contemporary architecture of brick, sandstone, precast concrete and glass is designed to bridge the modern and
traditional architecture of the campus. Inside the three-story facility, study lounges, break-out areas and conference
rooms encourage students from different academic programs to connect and collaborate, while providing them
with the latest cutting-edge computer technology. A rooftop observatory will be used by the University’s astronomy
program.
Vanderweil is responsible for the design of the mechanical, electrical, plumbing and fire protection (MEP/FP) systems
in the building. This network includes classroom and office air-handling systems; the building’s central chilled water
and heating hot water boiler plant; and ventilation, electrical power and lighting systems.
The engineering and architecture firms designed the CCIT as an instrument to educate the campus community about
environmental responsibility. A green roof helps to manage storm water run-off on campus and creates a venue for
the ethno-botany program. Other sustainable features include lighting control systems, chilled beams, high-efficiency
condensing boilers and an energy recovery heat wheel.
The CCIT is currently under construction and was designed to achieve a LEED® Gold rating with the potential for
certification from the United States Green Buildings Council. The building is scheduled to open in early 2014.