Lee Kennedy Co. begins work on $27 million UMass. Lowell residence hall

Lee Kennedy Co. has mobilized on a new 510-bed residence hall on the University of Massachusetts Lowell campus. The $27 million project will be completed on an aggressive 15-month schedule to accommodate student housing for the fall 2013 semester. Designed by Neshemkin French Architects, the six-story building totals 165,000 s/f and stretches over 465 feet. LKCo. will utilize a unique Infinity structural system on the building; this load bearing metal stud system is designed for low story heights and comes panelized for faster installation. In addition to the residences, the building includes interior parking for 20 cars, a fitness area and locker rooms, laundry, a conference center, common spaces and lounge areas. There is also slated to be a connector bridge between the facility and a campus parking lot. The team is working in close proximity to an active MBTA track, making logistics a key construction concern.