Architect picked to design new Children’s Center

An architectural firm based in Buffalo will shepherd development of SUNY Fredonia’s new $4.7 million Campus and Community Children’s Center, beginning with program design work and extending all the way through construction administration.

Markus Kessler, director of facilities planning at SUNY Fredonia, said Flynn Battaglia Architects quickly emerged as the clear front-runner during the RFQ (Requests For Qualifications) evaluation phase among 10 other firms. “They were ranked No. 1, and the second-ranked proposal was more than 2 points behind,” Mr. Kessler said in describing the rather considerable gap separating Flynn Battaglia from its nearest competitor.

Flynn Battaglia Architects will provide full architectural services, encompassing programming schematic designs, architectural concepts, design development and construction documents, Mr. Kessler said. “They will also be involved in construction administration, and will make sure the contractor is building the building per their specifications.”

The firm has already been involved in window replacement projects at several SUNY Fredonia residential facilities, including McGinnies, Nixon, and Chautauqua. 

Mr. Kessler indicated that Flynn Battaglia Architects will likely begin design work this summer, with construction bids to be accepted in May 2008. Ground could be broken three months later, with completion of construction anticipated in August of 2009. The architect’s fee proposal must draw approvals from both SUNY Fredonia and the state comptroller’s office before design work can begin.

Funding for the project was included in the state budget recently passed by the State Legislature.

The staff of the current Campus and Community Children’s Center, located in Thompson Hall, is understandably thrilled to see the project move forward. “It’s still a little overwhelming, but it’s very exciting just going through the process. I know the staff is very excited and parents have indicated they are very excited, too,” said Judy Metzger, the center’s executive director.

The 16,000 square-foot facility will accommodate current toddler care and preschool programs, as well as a new infant care program, which Ms. Metzger identified as a major community need. She would also like to expand the program for school-age children so more children in families living outside of Fredonia can be enrolled.