Lowell, MA

University of Massachusetts, Massachusetts Medical Device Development Center (M2D2)

Scope/Solutions
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Project Summary

Scope/Solutions

The Wannalancit Mills complex includes some original portions of the structure from when it was constructed for textile manufacturing in 1830. As part of an adaptive reuse project in the mid-to-late 2000s, several portions of the building were renovated as office spaces and a large two-story section of the southeast wing was redeveloped for the Massachusetts Medical Device Development Center (M2D2). As part of the M2D2 renovation for the University of Massachusetts, SGH evaluated the adequacy of the heavy timber structure to support new office and laboratory space.

SGH’s work included the following:

Performed a structural condition assessment to identify deteriorated sections of brick masonry and decayed or broken timber framing components
Identified the wood species and visually stress-graded wood decking and heavy timber beams comprising the roof and floor framing
Evaluated the structural capacity of wood and timber framing elements and recommended base allowable stress design properties
Peer reviewed floor and roof strengthening details proposed by the structural engineer of record