Stevens Construction completes Conservancy of Southwest Florida Environmental Studies Dormitory

NAPLES, Fla.  – Stevens Construction has completed construction of a three-story, 23,915-square-foot environmental studies dormitory for the Conservancy of Southwest Florida, announced Dan Adams, executive vice president/principal, Stevens Construction, Inc.

To accommodate the Conservancy of Southwest Florida’s objectives for additional administrative space, attract global talent for conservation interns and grow the Conservancy’s environmental education, sea turtle and Burmese python internship programs as well as provide hands-on experience at the onsite von Arx Wildlife Rehabilitation Hospital, a need was identified for a new environmental studies dormitory. 

Reflecting the color palette of the Conservancy campus, the building includes 15 covered parking spaces on the first level with four level 2 vehicle charging stations. The second floor houses offices, flex space, conference rooms and a soundproof media room, which required unique insulation for the plumbing, ductwork and roof drain lines. The third floor features 16 dorms to accommodate 32 students, a private suite for visiting scholars, restrooms with showers, a kitchen with living area and laundry facilities.

“As we compete for regional, national and global talent for conservation interns, this wonderful new facility puts the Conservancy on the cutting edge to be competitive in attracting the best candidates,” said Rob Moher, president and CEO of the Conservancy of Southwest Florida. “Through our internship program, we are shaping the conservation leaders of the future, and we are grateful for the support of all the donors who made this possible. Our greatest gratitude goes to a very special couple, Jeannie and Christopher Smith, who passionately support our mission and gave the lead gift for the Environmental Studies Dormitory. Long-time Conservancy supporters, the Smith family recognizes the impact of environmental studies on our mission and vital conservation work that takes place here every day, and this building is named in their honor.”

Moher shared the Conservancy’s thanks to over a dozen other key donors and foundations who contributed to the building’s construction. Moher noted in particular the support from The Dellora and Lester Norris Foundation and The Martin Foundation who were early investors in the project, giving the Conservancy the needed confidence to move forward on this large project.

“This environmental studies building is a shining example of the Conservancy’s continued investment into providing world-class facilities here at our nature center campus,” added Moher. “It will help strengthen our almost 60-year foundation for conservation by accommodating interns from across the country, and in some cases, the world.”

Showcasing the Conservancy’s commitment to sustainability, the building includes LED lighting, solar panel capability and frit pattern glass to repel birds and minimize bird strikes. Located at 1495 Smith Preserve Way in Naples, the building has complete lockdown capability if a threat is ever present. 

The Stevens Construction team included Senior Project Manager Jon Zander, Superintendent David Erb and Project Administrator Angie Sugg. The project was designed by Parker Mudgett Smith Architects.

About Stevens Construction, Inc.

With offices in Fort Myers, Sarasota and Orlando, Fla., Stevens Construction specializes in providing construction management, general contracting and consulting services to clients and design professionals. Other services include site and design team selection, budgeting, project scheduling, permitting, cost and quality control and warranty service. The company builds healthcare, commercial and hospitality facilities. For information, visit www.stevensbuilds.com or call 239-936-9006.