Gallaudet University - Sorenson Language and Communication Center

Heery International provided construction project management services for the new 87,700 SF language and communication center at Gallaudet University in Washington, D.C. Gallaudet is the world’s premiere university dedicated to serving deaf and hard of hearing students. Founded in 1864 by President Abraham Lincoln, Gallaudet is also a leading international research center. The $32 million building creates a world-class academic teaching and research center for American Sign Language, culture, history and community. The three-story building is designed for LEED certification and includes classrooms, computer laboratories, audio-testing clinics, office space and a large atrium with amphitheater-style seating area.

During pre-construction, Heery provided document reviews and cost estimates, managed the solicitation of architects, pre-qualified contractors and managed the contractor solicitation and award process. The goal of the design reviews was to protect Gallaudet’s visu-centric design criteria as well as to optimize budget dollars based on the most practical construction components, while upholding Gallaudet’s space program. Heery also contracted with various other service providers such as testing and inspection, security system, permit review expeditor, commissioning, architectural design services, audiometric booths, data/cable TV/phone cabling, geotechnical investigation, and surveying. Heery managed the construction phase of the project with services including construction review, schedule monitoring, construction pay applications, all invoice reviews, procurement and managing all contracts, design detail interfaces with the architect and general contractor, review of construction change directive proposals, and periodic meetings with all contractors, service providers, and user groups.

The project opened in fall 2008.