University of Maryland Begins Construction on School of Public Policy

The University of Maryland began construction in late 2019 on the $45 million School of Public Policy in College Park. Designed by Leo A Daly in association with VJAA, the 70,000-sf facility will collocate the school's five research centers and institutes, as well as accommodating 90 faculty members and over 1,000 undergraduate and graduate students. Featuring a biophilic design, the four-story building will offer five flexible learning environments providing between 25 and 150 seats. LEED Gold certification will be sought for the sustainably designed structure, which will include collaboration spaces, study areas, a library, a rooftop terrace, and a large communal atrium. The headquarters of the Do Good Institute, a campus-wide hub for social innovation, philanthropy, and nonprofit leadership, will also be located in the facility. Ground was broken on the project in October of 2019 and completion is expected in 2022.