STV has partnered with Wellesley College for many years, supporting a wide range of campus infrastructure improvements. One of the largest efforts involved decoupling the campus from its long‑standing lake‑source cooling loop – an environmentally driven decision that also enabled greater flexibility to support future campus development. Implemented in phases across several central campus buildings, this program delivered critical mechanical, electrical and plumbing (MEP) upgrades that modernized systems while preparing facilities for a more resilient cooling strategy.
What challenges did STV address?
Wellesley College needed to transition away from an aging, environmentally sensitive cooling system that no longer aligned with campus sustainability goals or long‑term growth plans. The work required thoughtful phasing across multiple occupied buildings – ranging from the historic Margaret Clapp Library to academic spaces, the College Club and the main data center. Ensuring safety, maintaining operations, and designing new systems that did not compromise the performance of existing ones were key technical and logistical challenges.
What solutions did STV deliver?
STV provided full design and engineering services across multiple project phases, including detailed assessments, MEP system upgrades and utility infrastructure improvements. The team led a comprehensive conditions assessment of all campus infrastructure and delivered complete design solutions for deteriorated utility tunnels, mechanical and electrical equipment replacements and system modernizations. These upgrades created a safer, more reliable and more energy‑efficient campus utility network tailored to Wellesley’s long‑term needs.
How does this project benefit the Wellesley community?
The improvements strengthen campus resilience, reduce environmental impact and support future academic expansion. By modernizing critical MEP and utility systems, the project enhances safety, operational reliability and energy efficiency, benefiting students, faculty and staff while advancing Wellesley’s sustainability goals. The work also ensures that campus facilities can adapt to future technological demands and climate considerations.
Key stats and accolades
- Multi‑phase MEP upgrades across central academic and support buildings
- Transition from lake‑source cooling to modern, flexible systems
- Comprehensive campus‑wide infrastructure conditions assessment
- Full design services for utility tunnels, equipment replacements and MEP modernization
- Enhanced safety, reliability and long‑term sustainability
