In 2002, Hallmark was selected by the University of California Board of Regents to become program manager for the Phase 1 construction of U.C. Merced. Hallmark was tasked with managing work to establish project budgets and schedules, obtain permits under state and federal law, conduct risk assessments, and implement quality-control measures to ensure the timely opening of the U.C. Merced campus. Hallmark instituted document controls, budget controls, and program protocols to manage the completion of the planning and permitting processes, while concurrently constructing the in-ground infrastructure and eight buildings required for campus opening at a construction value of $500 million. Hallmark worked closely with the U.C. Office of the President, the U.C. Merced Executive Committee, and the Board of Regents to enable appropriate oversight and ensure the Regents were apprised of progress on this vitally important project for the University.
Results: Despite record rainfall during the final phase of construction, a State budget crisis, and a challenging bidding environment, Hallmark completed the University of California’s 10th campus, while earning a LEEDS Gold or Platinum certification for all buildings.
