Seattle - Skanska USA Building Inc. (Seattle) was recently awarded the preconstruction services assignment for the University of Washington's Johnson Hall renovation here.

The preconstruction phase will begin in the third quarter of 2003. If the project proceeds into the construction phase - anticipated for January 2004 - the expected construction value of the project would be approximately $35 million.

Skanska will oversee the project, which includes seismic upgrades and renovation of the 121,000-sq.-ft., five-story historic structure built in the 1930s. Significant seismic upgrades include the addition of a lateral bracing system and installation of floor diaphragms. When complete, the lab and classroom/administration facility will house the Earth Sciences and Biology departments.