The most significant addition to Harvard Law School’s campus since architect H.H. Richardson designed Austin Hall in 1883, the 250,000-square-foot building on Massachusetts Avenue is expected to transform the Harvard Law experience and shape the school for decades to come.
The pre-existing “island” approach to shipping, receiving, and vehicle movement meant that each building on campus had evolved its own system for vendors, logistics, and delivery. This, along with narrow Cambridge streets, meant that past delivery practices would not suffice to achieve Harvard’s goals. Furthermore, Harvard sought to reduce adverse construction impacts on the surrounding residential neighborhood.
Kleinfelder researched and verified vehicle patterns—frequently challenging assumptions and modifying data with the new findings in mind—then modeled all current and projected truck movements within the Law School campus. The team then used these models to design a temporary central loading facility to replace existing services eliminated by the pending new construction. With reliable data, Kleinfelder was able to design a new state-of-the-art central loading facility in the new complex to meet campus service and transportation needs.
By identifying vehicle types, sizes, and delivery schedules compatible with neighborhood activities—and by consolidating service areas and docks from three buildings into one—Kleinfelder redefined the University’s access and delivery needs to create a long-term, functional, and cost-effective solution. Furthermore, the team integrated materials management best practices into the University’s long-term logistics plan.
Location:
Cambridge, Massachusetts
Owner:
Harvard University
