The University of Alabama at Birmingham has celebrated the topping out of Phase I of its new Science and Engineering Complex. The $76-million, 138,842 square-foot facility by Hoar Construction represents Phase I of a three-part project that consolidates basic science undergraduate and graduate studies in one complex.

The first phase of the concrete structure consists of four levels that will house biology, chemistry and physics labs and classrooms alongside faculty and staff offices. It will feature specialized labs and cold growth environment rooms. Collaboration spaces students across disciplines and levels of education to mingle and work together in a cohesive environment.

The project continues a lengthy relationship between Hoar and UAB, including the construction of a new residence hall, Blazer Hall, and renovation of Heritage Hall. Hoar also served as general contractor for the construction of the Abroms-Engel Institute for the Visual Arts as well as the Shelby Biomedical Research Building.