BBI delivered a four-phase, 35,000 SF occupied renovation and HVAC modernization at McCarty Hall D for the University of Florida, replacing aging mechanical systems and modernizing interior environments while portions of the building remained active throughout construction.
The project required careful phasing, asbestos abatement coordination, owner-direct procurement, and disciplined campus logistics planning to maintain operational continuity within a highly active university environment.
THE CHALLENGE
Replacing aging infrastructure inside an occupied university facility.
The University of Florida needed to modernize aging HVAC and interior systems throughout more than 35,000 SF of occupied office space within McCarty Hall D.
The project required complete replacement of the building’s HVAC infrastructure, including demolition of existing ductwork later confirmed to contain asbestos requiring coordinated abatement and controlled removal procedures.
At the same time, portions of the building remained occupied and operational throughout construction, requiring careful coordination around active occupants, campus circulation, material deliveries, pedestrian safety, and building access.
The project was further complicated by concurrent user-led interior renovations taking place alongside the modernization work, making communication, sequencing, and schedule alignment essential to maintaining progress and minimizing disruption.
THE BBI APPROACH
Phased execution built around operational continuity.
BBI developed a phased construction strategy designed to modernize critical building systems while maintaining building functionality and supporting the University’s operational needs throughout construction.
To improve schedule certainty and reduce procurement risk, the project’s custom air handling unit was Owner Direct Purchased early in the process, accelerating equipment delivery while creating tax savings for the University.
BBI coordinated closely with the owner, design team, user groups, and trade partners throughout all four phases to manage:
- Phased occupied renovations
- Asbestos abatement
- HVAC replacement and commissioning
- Building automation upgrades
- Utility coordination
- Concurrent renovation activities
- Campus logistics and pedestrian circulation
- Material deliveries and site access
- Schedule alignment with occupant move-back requirements
The modernization included chilled water and heating hot water systems, custom air handling equipment, air terminals, building automation systems, lighting upgrades, fire alarm and sprinkler improvements, networking infrastructure, acoustical ceilings, finishes, storefront systems, and interior space upgrades coordinated alongside parallel user renovations.
PROJECT OUTCOMES
A coordinated modernization delivered through disciplined planning.
BBI successfully modernized critical building infrastructure and interior environments while maintaining operational continuity throughout all phases of construction.
Through proactive coordination, phased execution, and close collaboration with University stakeholders, the project improved long-term building performance, occupant comfort, infrastructure reliability, and operational efficiency while supporting the University’s ongoing campus operations without interruption.
