CONSTRUCTION COMPLETE FOR HARRIS-STOWE EDUCATION CENTER

ST. LOUIS — Construction is complete for the new Early Childhood Development & Parenting Education Center at Harris-Stowe State University in St. Louis. The $17 million project is located at 10 N. Compton Ave. It totals 47,885 square feet and houses children from newborn through pre-kindergarten, as well as the university's Early Childhood Education Department — both of which are housed in separate wings of the building. Amenities include an outdoor playground and courtyard, a parents library and education room, a multipurpose room with a full kitchen, a student computer lounge, a large lecture hall and smart board technology in each classroom. The project is seeking LEED-Silver certification, with sustainable features including energy-efficient mechanical systems, pervious pavement and play surfaces, a rain garden and recycled rubber for playground surfaces. The project architect was KAI Design + Build. Locally based Kwame Building Group served as construction manager and owner's representative, with Arnold, Mo.-based Kozeny-Wagner serving as general contractor.