Customer Profile: Founded in 1872, Saint Peter’s University is a private university in Jersey City, NJ, offering over 60 undergraduate and graduate programs to nearly 6,000 students. In 2025, The Princeton Review recognized it as one of the nation’s most environmentally responsible colleges.
Customer Challenge: The University established a goal to improve environmental conditions in Gannon Hall, its science building on campus that supports biology, chemistry, biochemistry, health sciences, and biotechnology programs. Given its function as a health sciences teaching lab, maintaining stable environmental conditions was critical. However, the building faced several challenges including inconsistent temperature control, poor lab pressure regulation, aging and failing HVAC equipment, condensation leaks from deteriorating pipes, and a lack of preventative maintenance.
With a grant secured for facility upgrades, the university engaged Stark Tech through a negotiated contract to develop a comprehensive solution.
Stark Tech Solution: Gannon Hall was originally served by a central steam and chilled water plant with a mix of standard VAV systems (with reheat) and lab-specific components.
Stark Tech conducted a full system evaluation to identify root causes and optimize building performance. To address the challenges listed above, Stark Tech’s Construction and Service teams implemented a total upgraded building system approach, including:
- Installing a new EcoStruxure DDC System
- Upgrading all pneumatic end devices to Electronic Belimo
- Cleaning coils, replacing filters, and installing Square D Drives
- Repairing insulation, replacing steam traps, and engaging a certified Testing & Balancing Company to restore airflow
- Installing a new Lab Control System by LCS for supply/exhaust air valves and fume hoods
- Retrofitting existing lab exhaust fans with Square D VFDs
Project Results: The $1.35M project began in March 2025, with completion targeted for August 20, 2025. Significant energy savings are expected. The Stark Tech Team will provide remote system support and monthly site visits during the first-year warranty period to ensure ongoing effectiveness.
The team looks forward to future projects on campus and aims to implement a service solutions contract covering controls, remote support, and emergency HVAC services.
