Grand opening of Florida Poly’s new state-of-the-art research building
WHAT: Florida Polytechnic University leaders will be joined by state and community officials to celebrate the grand opening of the Applied Research Center, a cutting-edge facility designed to serve as a research hub for innovation and attract economic development. The $47 million building enhances the already iconic campus located in Lakeland, Florida.
WHO: Participants include State Sen. Kelli Stargel, State Rep. Colleen Burton, University President Randy Avent, and members of the Florida Poly Board of Trustees. The event will begin with a brief program followed by a ribbon-cutting ceremony. Reporters will be able to walk through the facility and are encouraged to take photos and video.
WHEN: Thursday, Aug. 18 at 9 a.m.
WHERE: Florida Polytechnic University, 4700 Research Way, Lakeland. The event will take place in the area between the famous Innovation, Science, and Technology (IST) Building and the Applied Research Center (ARC).
PARKING: Press should park in parking lot 4. See an interactive map of campus here. Click on Parking/Transportation to see parking location.
RSVP: We encourage members of the media to RSVP by Wednesday, Aug. 17, as space is limited. To RSVP, please contact Lydia Guzmán by email at[email protected] or call 863-327-9762.
QUICK FACTS ABOUT THE ARC:
- The Applied Research Center (ARC) is Florida Poly’s second academic building.
- The ARC will serve as a research hub for faculty and students, as well as a magnet for economic development.
- The $47 million, two-story building is a more than 90,000-square-foot facility that houses research and teaching labs, student design spaces, conference rooms, and faculty offices.
- The ARC is located on the northwest side of campus adjacent to the famousInnovation, Science, and Technology (IST) Building.
- Its design complements the architecturally renowned IST, featuring large reflective windows and extensive views of the campus.
- The ARC is also visible from I-4.
- The builder is Skanska USA, which also developed the IST, and the architect design firm is HOK.
About Florida Polytechnic University: Florida Polytechnic University is a nationally ranked Top 100 engineering college, accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges, and a member of the State University System of Florida. It is the only state university dedicated exclusively to STEM and offers ABET-accredited degrees. Florida Poly is a powerful economic engine within the state of Florida, blending applied research with industry partnerships to give students an academically rigorous education with real-world relevance. Florida Poly’s iconic Innovation, Science, and Technology Building, designed by world-renowned architect Dr. Santiago Calatrava, has won more than 20 global awards and was named one of the 16 most breathtaking buildings in the world. Connect with Florida Poly.
