Science Center Announces Expansion Project

PHILADELPHIA — The University City Science Center (UCSC) recently announced the construction of a new 11-story tower at 3737 Market Street in West Philadelphia, Pa. as part of a collaboration with Wexford Science + Technology, a private real estate investment and development company from Baltimore, Md Wexford Science + Technology specializes in working with nonprofit organizations like hospitals and universities, as well as private businesses. UCSC was established in 1963 and remains the largest urban research park in the nation. Research parks are organizations that foster collaboration between university researchers, entrepreneurs and community groups. A study by the Economy League of Greater Philadelphia in 2009 found that companies started with assistance from UCSC had an annual economic impact of around $9 billion in Philadelphia. The study added that over 15,000 permanent local jobs were created in the process.

The 272,000-square-foot building will primarily house outpatient medical facilities for Penn Presbyterian Medical Center (PPMC), but will also feature retail space on the ground level, along with lab and office space for start-ups. Philly.com recently reported a similar structure right next door found great success in quickly populating itself with start-up companies upon its completion in 2010. PPMC CEO Michele Volpe commented that, “This expansion will provide PPMC faculty and staff with the infrastructure necessary to better serve the Powelton Avenue, West Philadelphia, and even the Greater Philadelphia communities. Since PPMC was founded in 1871, it has proved to be a leader in providing top-quality patient care. Our new building will only further reinforce our commitments to excellence, our patients and our community.”

The project features the work of West Coast architectural firm Zimmer Gunsul Frasca Architects and Philadelphia-based UJMN Architects + Designers, and aims to achieve LEED Silver certification.

Penn Presbyterian will take up around 155,000 square feet for outpatient and orthopedic services. In addition, Good Shepherd Penn Partners, which specializes in physical therapy and rehabilitation, will take up about a floor and a half. The remaining 88,000 square feet will be used to advance the Science Center’s mission of feeding tech innovation, entrepreneurship and economic development. Penn Presbyterian is known for creating one of the first coronary care units in the nation, and is now considered a leader in new techniques of minimally invasive surgery, including robotic-assisted procedures.

“We are delighted that we’ll be celebrating the Science Center’s 50th anniversary in 2013 with construction cranes on our campus. It sends a positive message about the economic recovery, job creation and the desirability of University City as an innovation center,” UCSC President Stephen S. Tang commented. “Penn Presbyterian’s expansion onto the Science Center campus strengthens University City’s unparalleled reputation as an Eds and Meds hub.”

Added James R. Berens, chairman, Wexford Science + Technology, “We are very excited to continue our partnership with the Science Center with the development of 3737 Market. The project, as a mix of clinical, research and office uses, is a perfect match to the Science Center’s mission and Wexford’s capabilities and is a great opportunity to cultivate University City and Philadelphia’s innovation cluster."

Construction will begin on the project in September, with completion targeted for June of 2014.