• Days ahead of the new academic year, Florida Polytechnic University unveiled its new $47 million research building 
• The facility vastly expands the university’s pre-existing research infrastructure and plans to be utilized as an industry research hub 
• In the Florida state budget, Florida Polytechnic was awarded $20 million in aid to assist in building expenses
• Florida Polytechnic has established itself as a premier STEM research institution in Florida

Florida Polytechnic University unveiled its new state-of-the-art $47 million research building. The facility will be operational for the beginning of the new academic year next week and aims to expand faculty research capabilities and serve as an industry research hub.

Constructed to encompass more than 90,000 square feet, the Applied Research Center (ARC) houses university research and teaching laboratories, student design spaces, conference rooms, faculty offices, and study areas.

The ARC was specifically designed to become a research hub and a magnet for various STEM industry fields. Built by Skanska USA, HOK performed architectural duties.

Elected officials and local leaders joined Florida Polytechnic in celebrating ARC’s grand opening. Speakers included University President Randy Avent, Cliff Otto, chairman of Florida Poly’s Board of Trustees, Congressman Scott Franklin, Senator Kelli Stargel, and Representative Colleen Burton, according to the university.

“Since 2014, students from across the country have chosen Florida Polytechnic because of the unique learning environment the university offers,” Stargel said. “The ARC will ensure we continue to recruit top faculty and students who can feel confident we have the technology and resources they need to research and innovate.”

The Polk County delegation backed Florida Polytechnic as the Legislature approved funding to finalize the building, which will serve as the school’s second academic facility.

In the most recent iteration of Florida’s state budget, Florida Polytechnic was awarded $20 million to aid in construction and planning costs associated with the new building.

“I am very proud to be a member of the Polk County legislative delegation. Each one of us has worked closely together to make sure this university continues to grow, serve students, bring economic development to Polk County and the entire Central Florida [region], and continues to enrich the lives of all Floridians,” Burton said.