Towson University Campus Construction
Towson University Campus Construction by Lewis Contractors reflects a long‑term, multi‑project partnership delivering renovations, restorations, and new construction across academic, athletic, residential, public safety, and campus hospitality environments. Executed over more than a decade, this body of work required disciplined sequencing, deep institutional knowledge, and construction solutions tailored to an active, densely developed university campus.
A cornerstone of this partnership was the restoration and renovation of Newell and Richmond Halls, two iconic early‑20th‑century residence halls. Lewis Contractors modernized building systems, addressed accessibility and code requirements, and integrated new technology and security infrastructure while performing highly specialized exterior restoration. The work included masonry repair and repointing, replication of historic terracotta and cast stone elements, and intricate copper roofing and drainage assemblies fabricated to match original detailing—all completed in a highly visible campus setting with continuous academic activity.
Athletic and academic facilities were advanced through multiple phases of work at Burdick Hall. Phase II focused on comprehensive MEP modernization, including connection to the campus central chilled water system, HVAC and electrical upgrades, fire protection improvements, lighting and ceiling replacements, and architectural modifications within an occupied fitness and classroom facility. Phase III built on that foundation with phased renovations and additions that expanded instructional spaces, improved the building envelope, introduced daylight through new curtainwall construction, and delivered smart classrooms and training environments. Both phases required forensic investigation of existing conditions, careful structural coordination, and continuous operation of campus facilities throughout construction.
A major component of this partnership was the Burdick Hall Expansion, a transformative 94,500‑square‑foot, multi‑level addition delivered by Lewis Contractors as Construction Manager at Risk. The expansion redefined Towson University’s Campus Recreation Services facility, connecting seamlessly to earlier phases and introducing a comprehensive suite of wellness and recreation amenities, including fitness and training spaces, group exercise studios, aquatics, climbing, indoor track, multi‑activity courts, locker rooms, a café, and outdoor plazas. Constructed on a constrained mid‑campus site, the project required extensive coordination to identify, protect, and reroute dense, active utility infrastructure while maintaining uninterrupted campus operations. The completed facility achieved LEED Gold certification, reflecting the project team’s commitment to sustainability and long‑term performance.
Additional campus improvements included construction of the Towson University Public Safety Building, a new facility consolidating emergency operations, dispatch, and secure police functions, as well as the Berkshire Pub renovation, which transformed an outdoor terrace into a high‑finish private dining and event venue within an occupied residential building.
Together, these projects demonstrate Lewis Contractors’ ability to deliver complex, phased construction across an active higher‑education campus—balancing logistics, safety, infrastructure, and stakeholder coordination while supporting Towson University’s long‑term growth and student experience.