Smooth-Sailing Windward Commons Creates Campus Enhancements For Armstrong Atlantic State University - Hardin Construction Beats Schedule, Budget, Paving Way For Other Improvements

Budget savings and ahead-of-schedule progress by Hardin Construction Company on Windward Commons made other campus enhancements possible, including a 1,000-foot pedestrian walkway connecting the new parking lot to campus; revitalization of a student amphitheater and a fitness trail; and an overhaul of the existing parking area. End Quote

It was probably the smoothest construction project we have ever done at Armstrong Atlantic, said Dr. Vicki McNeil, AASU vice president

(1888PressRelease) August 19, 2010 - ATLANTA, GA - When Armstrong Atlantic State University (AASU) freshmen move into the new Windward Commons residence hall in August, they'll also get to enjoy a few unplanned campus amenities-thanks to the project team's tight collaboration and prudent budget and schedule management.

The main attraction, of course, is state-of-the-art Windward Commons. Developed specifically for freshmen, the residence hall features suite-style living for 569 students in a complex with two four-story wings and a central lobby, two full kitchens, a game room, two smart classrooms, wireless Internet, and a 527-space parking lot.

Begun in summer 2009, the building received its Certificate of Occupancy June 1, 2010 and was completed in July. Hardin Construction, which has built more than 5 million square feet of higher education facilities, was the construction manager-at-risk for Windward Commons.

'Smoothest project ever'
"It was probably the smoothest construction project we have ever done at Armstrong Atlantic," said Dr. Vicki McNeil, AASU vice president for student affairs. "It more than met our expectations."

McNeil cited wise management and close collaboration by a budget-conscious team for the project's success. "Our communication was very transparent," she said. "What really makes it work is when you have companies like Hardin Construction that are willing to listen and to make it work, no matter what it takes."

Budget savings and ahead-of-schedule progress on Windward Commons made other campus enhancements possible, including a 1,000-foot pedestrian walkway connecting the new parking lot to campus; revitalization of a student amphitheater and a fitness trail; and an overhaul of the existing parking area.

The project team also included University Housing Services of St. Petersburg, Florida, the project developer, and HADP Architecture of Atlanta, the architect of record.

Students are scheduled to move into Windward Commons August 12 and 13.

About Hardin Construction:
Hardin Construction Company, LLC provides unequalled construction services through its culture of integrity, innovation and opportunity. Hardin is ranked among the nation's top construction companies and is nationally recognized by the industry for its outstanding safety record. A leader in green construction, Hardin has completed nearly 20 LEED-certified projects and has more than 40 LEED Accredited Professionals. Founded in 1946 and privately held, Hardin's services include general construction, construction management, design-build, and renovation for projects of broad scope and complexity. Hardin has headquarters in Atlanta, Ga., and offices in Tampa, Fla., Orlando, Fla., Raleigh, N.C., and Austin, Texas. For more information, visit www.hardinconstruction.com .

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