University of Illinois at Chicago, College of Pharmacy

Escalators, Modernization

Location: Chicago

Submitted by: Chris Pecak

Project Description

The University of Illinois at Chicago is one of the state’s oldest universities, having been founded in 1859. Its College of Pharmacy is one of the largest research labs in the state and provides up-to-date pharmaceutical research. It was deemed necessary to provide better accessibility throughout the building. For years, the existing Westinghouse north escalators remained shut down and were used as stairs. 

In three years and two phases, KONE, Inc. modernized six of the building’s escalators by equipping them with its EcoMod™ technology. Due to the building’s structure, KONE had to work in narrow areas.

University officials required that the building remain operational throughout the entire project, and only one escalator was shut down at a time. In addition, the only structure modification allowed was to create a new window to crane equipment materials into the buildings in order to limit disruption to the building’s occupants. KONE completed the project three-and-a-half months ahead of schedule.

Specifications

• Type and number: Six Westinghouse escalators equipped with EcoMod technology

• Step width: Original 24 inches

• Location of equipment: Arranged at the back of the building in line with the main arterial hallway

Credits 

Owner: Office for Capital Programs

Professional Services 

Consultant: Office for Capital Programs

Consultant: Lerch Bates

Escalators: KONE Inc.