Design and Construction

Manages the construction contract phase to ensure schedules, safety, and quality standards are met. As the University’s primary contact with contractors and subcontractors, the team inspects sites for compliance with documents, codes, and University standards. At project completion, the team oversees the turnover process to ensure a smooth transition to the Penn State customer. 

Responsible for construction contract procurement, contractor pre-qualification, change-order review and processing, and professional agreements. The team also manages contractor payment applications, the Diverse Business Enterprise (DBE) Program, and specification and drawing distribution. Contract Administration additionally serves as the liaison with the PA Department of General Services (DGS). 

Provides architectural, engineering, and building code/permitting services for Penn State projects, primarily renovations and small additions up to $4 million. Services include architectural design, mechanical and plumbing engineering, electrical engineering, civil engineering, structural engineering support, roof system and elevator design, building code support and virtual/BIM related services. Projects are designed according to the Office of Physical Plant’s Design and Construction standards.  

Space Management

Space Planning & Management handles all aspects of facilities planning, usage, and management across all University campuses. The unit is responsible for: space allocations and assignments, space requests, facilities information system maintenance and data integrity, block plan creation and maintenance, room numbering, campus visitor maps, building interior signage, university-wide accessibility projects, outdoor event management, and more. The unit also oversees classroom projects and allocates funding to support instructional spaces.

Campus Planning

Campus Planning provides big-picture ideas and concepts that align near-term priorities with long-term goals. The team leads the campus planning process, develops master plans and feasibility studies, guides transportation and site selection projects, leads landscape design, oversees campus signage standards and design, and represents the University in regional planning efforts. For additional information, visit our Campus Planning Resources. 

University Architect

Maintains the highest standards of design quality for campus planning, architecture, and civic spaces across all Penn State campuses. Responsibilities include developing and enforcing design guidelines, guiding and reviewing projects from programming through construction, managing architect selection and approvals.

Oversees the design and construction of projects at the University Park campus, including new construction, renovations, and major maintenance. Throughout these projects, the Project Management team serves as the primary interface with customers, architects, engineers, and construction workforces. 

Provides high-quality construction services to Penn State's University Park campus in a safe, cost-effective, and timely manner. Projects range from $1,000 to $10 million and are completed by an in-house workforce of more than 75 technicians and 15 staff. The team handles a wide range of architectural, mechanical, electrical, and technology tasks, working safely and efficiently in active campus buildings.