UPEI enjoys new classrooms

At an open house recently, the University of Prince Edward Island officially opened its new classroom centre. The centre was designed and constructed be Roseneath Homes. Because UPEI's enrolment increased by almost 20 percent over the past three years, it was critical to get good quality classrooms quickly.

It was also important to have the flexibility to add or relocate modules as the university's needs change. "Needing more classroom space is a good problem to have," said UPEI President Wade MacLauchlan in a statement. The 10 unit modular classroom building was constructed almost entirely indoors at Roseneath Homes' production facility at Pooles Corner near Montague. The 32 by 48 foot units were transported to the university by truck.

"We are excited about the benefits of modular construction," says Kent Sheen, vice-president of operations at Roseneath Homes. "The indoor construction site allows us to build cost-effectively in any weather condition." he said. "We are particularly proud of the UPEI project. People who have experienced the mobile classrooms of the past won't recognize that they are in a modular building."

The classrooms feature large windows, and internal courtyards provide each classroom with natural light. A large central corridor houses public space, washrooms, electrical and mechanical facilities. In turn, each module is wired to connect to UPEI's state-of-the-art fibre optic network, to support professors who incorporate technology in their teaching.

The 16,000 square foot building features a central lobby area and six classrooms. Two of the modules will house Atlantic Veterinary College offices that support increasing research activity. Construction of the classroom centre started in late spring of 2001 and was completed in time for the start of the academic year.