St. Cloud State ISELF: Structural & Civil Engineering for Science & Engineering Facilities

Project Overview

BKBM provided structural and civil engineering services for a new three-story, 100,000-square-foot Integrated Science and Engineering Laboratory Facility (ISELF) at St. Cloud. The building was designed for current academic needs and future expansion, supporting integrated, flexible STEM learning environments. The scope also included a new skyway connecting ISELF to the adjacent Wick Science Building.

Project Highlights

  • Integrated Science Building:
    • Three stories of flexible lab and science space, built to adapt to evolving academic programs.
    • Structural system utilizes composite steel beam floors, combination steel beam/steel joist roof, concrete foundation walls, and concrete stair/elevator towers.
    • Lateral resistance delivered by concrete shear walls and steel moment frames.
    • Foundations supported by conventional spread/strip footings on engineered fill (north), and aggregate piers (south), accommodating varied site conditions.
  • Specialized Floor Performance:
    • Targeted VC-A vibration criteria (2,000 µ-in/sec) in designated microscope areas for high-powered scientific research.
    • Fourth-floor mechanical space designed for laboratory robot vibration criteria (4,000 µ-in/sec), per AISC Design Guide 11.
  • Skyway Connection:
    • 73-foot clear span steel Vierendeel truss skyway linking ISELF to the Wick Science Building.
    • Building connections designed for independent expansion/contraction, minimizing structural loading on adjoining structures.
  • Civil Engineering Solutions:
    • Site grading for campus integration and drainage performance.
    • Utility design and a new loading dock to support operational needs.
    • Stormwater management in compliance with Minnesota B3 Sustainable Design Guidelines.

Engineering Solutions

BKBM’s team developed robust structural systems to accommodate vibration-sensitive laboratory equipment and future program growth. Complex skyway connections were engineered for both structural independence and user safety. Civil engineering focused on sustainable site integration and infrastructure resilience.

Results & Impact

The completed ISELF building provides state-of-the-art flexible lab and science space for St. Cloud, enabling innovative teaching and research. The integrated civil and structural solutions deliver long-term durability, sustainability, and adaptability, positioning the University for continued excellence in STEM education.