The University Childcare Center project, located at 1300 21st Street East, will address childcare needs for UA’s faculty, staff and students. The project will renovate approximately 23,747 gross square feet of the former Northington Elementary School to create childcare space, childcare support space, office and administrative space, as well as outdoor recreation and playground spaces. The renovated facility will accommodate 250 infants, toddlers, and children.

In addition, 11,500 gross square feet of the existing adjacent Gymnasium will be renovated to include a space for indoor play as well as provide the opportunity for the University to expand its offerings for potential summer camps and after-school care.

The Project will be constructed to accreditor standards and will be licensed through the Alabama Department of Human Resources Child Care Services Division, Office of Child Care Licensing.

The entire building will receive upgraded HVAC, plumbing and Life Safety Systems. The HVAC system within the Childcare Center will specifically have upgraded Indoor Air Quality requirements and infection prevention.

Long lead items will be Owner Purchased Contractor Installed to mitigate the effect of continued supply chain challenges.

The existing surface parking lot will be reconfigured to accommodate parking and safe dropoff and pick-up vehicular circulation as well as provide access to the gymnasium to accommodate potential service offering expansions. The Project will eliminate approximately $9,000,000 in campus deferred maintenance liabilities.