ST. LOUIS, MO — Tarlton Corp., a St. Louis-based general contracting and construction management firm, completed the new $39-million Center for Nursing and Health Sciences at St. Louis Community College (STLCC) at Forest Park.

Targeted for LEED Silver certification, the building is situated along I-64, a thoroughfare that passes through the Greater St. Louis area. The center is a landmark on the urban college campus, with high visibility from many of St. Louis’ civic treasures, including Forest Park, the Saint Louis Zoo and Saint Louis Science Center. Construction on the building began in March 2018.

The Center for Nursing and Health Sciences expands on the college’s programs in health sciences, which appeal to students who wish to explore a variety of health care professions. It further reflects a trend in education nationwide by offering hands-on, real world learning experiences for students who strive for careers in science, technology, engineering and mathematics.

Filled with natural light from expansive windows, the new building offers a comprehensive dental clinic, an allied health program, additional instructional classrooms, as well as space for future innovation. Modern science laboratories provide an in-depth exploration of human anatomy and physiology, as well as skilled nursing. Learning areas — some with MRI machines, an intensive care unit and operating rooms — are designed to simulate a 21st century hospital setting. The center currently serves 400 students enrolled in STLCC’s health science programs.

The Tarlton team included Sondra Rotty, Vice President and Project Director; Andrew Nelch, Senior Project Manager; Royale Jones, Project Engineer; Patrick Murphy, Project Superintendent; Joe Carr, Cost Engineer; and Greg Sweeso, Preconstruction. KAI Design & Build served as architect, and 40 additional consultants and subcontractors worked on the project.

The project’s tight timeline included making sure the building would be open and move-in ready for students for the fall 2019 semester. Tarlton steered team discussions and closely collaborated with faculty, equipment suppliers and furniture vendors to ensure spaces were fully operational prior to the start of classes.

“An additional challenge,” Nelch said, “was working ahead of long-lead materials and delays that would impact the building envelope to make sure the interior work stayed on schedule.”

“We are honored to build this exciting new learning environment,” said Tracy Hart, Tarlton President. “Situated in the heart of St. Louis near nationally ranked hospitals and health care providers, the Center for Nursing and Health Sciences will act as a catalyst for students to pursue opportunities and careers in the health care industry.”