Exciting Expansion Ahead: Kennedy College Unveils Plans for Olney Science Center Upgrade

Date: January 21, 2025

UMass Lowell is gearing up for an exciting expansion of its Olney Science Center, the largest building on campus. A $127 million project is about to kick off, bringing modernization and more space to the Kennedy College of Sciences building located on North Campus.

The construction begins in February with the demolition of the Olney 150 lecture hall. In its place, a brand-new, three-story wing will be built. This new section will feature a dozen cutting-edge labs for physics, chemistry, and weather studies, a 160-seat auditorium, and even a Starbucks cafe for students to enjoy. The whole addition will cover 51,300 square feet and is set to welcome students for the spring 2027 semester.

The project also includes renovations of 44,600 square feet of existing classroom and lab space, which will be finished by the fall 2027 semester. Dean Noureddine Melikechi of the Kennedy College of Sciences believes this renovation will greatly enhance how students learn in the sciences. He emphasizes that the new facilities will help students tackle real-world scientific issues and innovate in their fields.

During the construction period, the paths surrounding Olney, Pinanski Hall, and the Costello Athletic Center will be enclosed for safety. The main route to transport students to the North Campus bus stop and parking will be through the existing Olney entrance.

This project will transform the space, with a striking two-story wing extending over the bus loop below. The exterior will have a unique greenish-blue patina, making it a standout feature on campus. At the main entrance, visitors will find a spacious atrium filled with light, showcasing a grand staircase leading to the upper floors.

On the ground floor, there will be the new auditorium and interactive classroom spaces. The first floor will house five teaching labs and a Starbucks, while the second floor will feature labs for chemistry and a specialized weather lab for students in environmental sciences. Each level of the building will boast creative study areas designed to encourage collaboration among students.

Sembhi, the project’s director, envisions the new space as a welcoming hub for students to gather, create, and capitalize on their ideas.

Inside the current Olney building, six classrooms will be updated, including three that will become Technology Enhanced Active Learning (TEAL) classrooms. These will have tables designed for group work and large touchscreen monitors to support collaborative learning.

The Olney Science Center, built in 1974 and measuring 232,600 square feet, is crucial for the university. Named after Louis Atwell Olney, a long-time professor, it now stands at the center of UMass Lowell’s growth ambitions, especially as the university aims for Research 1 status.

With the expansion, UML will not only enhance its teaching facilities but also attract talented faculty and researchers. This commitment to improving resources showcases the university’s dedication to scientific research and education.

Meanwhile, construction on other campus projects continues, including a new esports arena on University Crossing and upgrades to the Campus Recreation Center. These efforts highlight UML’s commitment to providing a top-tier educational experience.

As Olney undergoes its transformation, students can look forward to a more vibrant and innovative learning environment that reflects the university’s mission for growth and success in science and technology.