DASNY and SUNY complete $30.7 million residence hall project

Albany, NY The Dormitory Authority of the State of New York (DASNY) and the State University of NY (SUNY), have completed the $ 30.7 million project to renovate Beverwyck and Schuyler Halls within the Dutch Quad at the University at Albany. The project, which was completed on-time, is part of $73 million in capital renovation projects DASNY is completing on SUNY campuses statewide.

The renovations were financed through DASNY’s SUNY Dormitory Facilities Program, which issues low-cost, tax-exempt bonds supported by student residence hall fees. The project was constructed to LEED Gold standards under the sustainability and energy efficiency guidelines of the U.S. Green Building Council.

Beverwyck and Schuyler Halls have been completely modernized. Each building and suite is equipped with card-swipe access, providing enhanced security. All suites were reconfigured, new furniture was purchased and bathrooms were transformed.The renovation included installation of new windows, framing, electrical, plumbing and fire alarm systems, complete with new showers, sinks, cabinetry, exhaust fans, and fresh paint. Low-flow faucets and toilets to conserve water were also installed and air conditioning is available throughout the residences. The renovation included installation of new windows, framing, electrical, plumbing and fire alarm systems.

“DASNY is pleased to offer cost-effective solutions, helping institutions like the University at Albany provide their students with up-to-date residences,” said Stephen Curro, P.E., DASNY’s managing director of construction. “The new open and inviting design of Beverwyck and Schuyler Halls will encourage collaboration and innovation, setting students up for success.”

“Each year SUNY receives a significant state investment to construct and renovate our infrastructure to better serve our students, faculty, and staff,” said SUNY chancellor Kristina Johnson. “Our partnership with DASNY provides critical upgrades to our residence halls that deliver a return on the state’s investment through buildings with enhanced security, additional work space, and greater energy efficiency.” 

Additional gathering spaces for students are available throughout, including comfortable lounges with televisions, a new Residential Life apartment and office, meeting and presentation spaces, private study and meeting rooms, as well as a laundry room on each floor. 

To foster a living-learning community on Dutch Quad, a Student Success Center and vending café have been incorporated into the first-floor space between the two residence halls.

The Student Success Center offers students the opportunity to practice and carry out presentations as well as participate in study or work sessions that require smaller breakout groups. The furniture selected for the space provides for flexible use to better serve the academic needs of the students.

A new entrance, complete with fresh landscaping and exterior lighting provides a welcoming face for the south side of Dutch Quad. A walking path and newly paved road between the south side of the buildings and the athletics fields both further enhance the appearance of the Campus and provide a better route for University shuttles, vehicles, and pedestrians, further enhancing security for students.

“Projects like these are very important to our University,” said UAlbany vice president for finance and administration Todd Foreman. “Through our partnership with DASNY and SUNY, we are ensuring the continued renewal of UAlbany’s beautiful campus and proud to provide living spaces where students can thrive educationally and socially.” 

 Some of the LEED elements included the installation of a tankless water heating system, which provides an endless supply of hot water, while saving space and reducing energy costs, a new high-efficient heating system, energy-saving LED lighting in the hallways and student rooms, the equipping of bathrooms with water-efficient plumbing fixtures to reduce indoor water usage, and an upgraded ventilation system that uses energy recovery technology.

As of October 2019, 47 DASNY projects have received a rating of LEED Certified or better, helping to reach governor Cuomo’s statewide energy goals to build a clean energy future for all of New York State.