Like West Michigan, the Medical Mile continues to evolve, pushing the boundaries of medical growth and invention. A major chapter of this story was authored when the Michigan State University Grand Rapids Research Center opened its doors to the community in late 2017. A monumental effort, constructing over 160,000 sq. ft. for inspiration, discovery, and collaboration took the hands of many throughout our City.
Situated on a tight urban site with two major vehicular and pedestrian circulation routes, a highway boundary to the north, and complex construction requirements for vibration, noise, contamination, isolation, and quality, the completion of the GRRC meant navigating these challenges precisely and with attention to detail.
The complex systems over the seven floors are many. From meeting spaces, core research labs, wet lab research, alcoves, to the complex building systems and redundant services, we worked with local teammate FTCH for third-party commissioning from design through completion. FTCH helped ensure startup occurred seamlessly and that all the systems operated as designed.
Our efforts, along with our joint venture teammate, Lansing-based Clark Construction, combined with MSU’s work to attract local trade contractors and make an investment in Grand Rapids, translated to an economic impact of increasing employment by 728 job-years, providing $55 million in wages, and increasing output by $95.6 million.
As we look forward to the next chapter of the Grand Rapids Innovation Park site, we are proud to be part of this one-of-a-kind campus focused on medical incubation and innovation in the heart of our City.
