The University of Virginia’s School of Data Science building celebrated its grand opening with a ribbon cutting ceremony this month. This marks a major milestone in the development of Ivy Corridor, a 14.5-acre parcel of land that serves as a significant entry point to the university. For the past eight years, VHB has been a trusted advisor to UVA on the development of Ivy Corridor, from its beginning as an empty lot, to the now designated entrance corridor for the Grounds. Ivy Corridor is elevating UVA through sophisticated design and planning, sustainable solutions, and successful partnerships.
The four-story, 60,000-square-foot School of Data Science building greets students and the Charlottesville community at the entrance of the corridor and includes adaptive classrooms, offices, and meeting and research areas. The fourth floor also includes an accessible terrace with a green roof to reduce stormwater runoff and provide additional insulation through vegetation. VHB was part of VMDO Architects’ team, providing civil engineering and transportation services. The grand opening featured opening remarks, a digital ribbon-cutting, and self-guided tours of the new building.
VHB designed a stormwater network to support a large, open water feature adjacent to the School of Data Science that will increase detention capacity for stormwater and relieve flooding that often occurs during major storm events. As an educational focal point for students and faculty, the centrally located stream and water feature creates a destination, promotes new ecosystems, and improves stormwater management impacts.
“Sustainability is at the core of this project. Each building at Ivy Corridor has been designed to meet individual LEED goals, incorporating environmentally friendly features and practices,” said Marshall Agee, PE, LEED AP BD+C, VHB Project Manager. “Not only are the buildings sustainable, but the surrounding open spaces, as well. The new water feature acknowledges a critical stormwater issue and contributes to the entire site's cohesion by making it a visually appealing place for the UVA community to meet, rest, and collaborate.”
VHB has been a trusted advisor to UVA for more than 15 years, helping create a robust environment for students, faculty, staff, and visitors. As UVA continues to have record-breaking years for applications with people applying to attend, they are facing demand for growth and expansion, requiring them to innovatively adapt to attract and retain students. Ivy Corridor at UVA stands as an example of how higher education institutions are addressing the needs of present and future students.
To learn more about VHB’s role on the School of Data Science project or Ivy Corridor, contact Marshall Agee.