U-M laboratories, Crisler Arena to get nearly $100 million in upgrades

Last week the University of Michigan Board of Regents advanced a couple more big projects totaling nearly $100 million in capital outlay. The regents approved a $47 million, inside-out renovation of the George Granger Brown Memorial Laboratories building. The 1958-era, 220,000 square-foot structure will get new finishes in common areas, an HVAC upgrade, new electrical and safety systems, new exterior windows, and better accessibility. The state of Michigan will cover about $30 million of the cost, with the balance coming from the university's investment proceeds and other resources from the College of Engineering and the Office of the Provost.   Troy, Mich.-based architecture firm Integrated Design Solutions will manage the design phase, with a construction start date to be determined upon completion of the design. And soon the roars in Crisler Arena won't just be from basketball fans. The arena's $52 million expansion and renovation project is ready to go out for construction bids. Funding will be provided by the U-M Athletic Department. The 63,000-square-foot addition will host retail spaces, ticketing areas, and a private club area. New spectator entries will also be installed. An existing 54,000 square feet will be redone with disability-accessible seating and better circulation and egress. Additional restrooms, concession stands, and fan amenities are also in the game plan. Work is expected to be complete by winter of 2014. Source: University of Michigan Board of Regents Writer: Tanya Muzumdar