BKF Engineers played a vital role in the transformation of two existing buildings into a state-of-the-art science center on a 12.5-acre site in San Mateo, California. This high-impact redevelopment project introduced two new utility yards and implemented extensive campus-wide upgrades, including infrastructure enhancements, improved amenity spaces, upgraded accessibility features, and new loading areas to support the advanced needs of life science tenants. BKF provided comprehensive civil engineering support from schematic design through construction, offering services such as utility research, site reconnaissance, grading and drainage plans, emergency vehicle access analysis, and detailed stormwater control documentation tailored to meet the unique demands of life science developments.

In addition to engineering services, BKF’s specialized survey team delivered critical support by preparing easement documents and conducting advanced 3D laser scanning of the buildings’ interiors. This included detailed scans of major interior spaces and building roofs across multiple levels, all performed prior to the start of construction activities. As the project progressed, BKF’s survey team continued to support field operations by providing precise reference marks for control lines on every level of the renovated structures, along with staking for improvements and utility installations across the entire site.

Throughout design development and the construction documentation phases, BKF worked in close coordination with the larger consultant team to ensure alignment of civil systems with project objectives. The firm also led permitting efforts by proactively engaging with key stakeholders, including the City of San Mateo and PG&E, to streamline review processes and facilitate timely approvals. This project showcases BKF’s deep expertise in delivering innovative civil engineering and survey solutions for the science center’s facility conversions, underscoring the firm’s commitment to technical excellence, collaboration, and client success.

This project has won the following awards:

• ENR – 2025 Award for Best Interior/Tenant Improvement
• Jury’s Choice Award – 2025 IIDA Northern California Honor Award

Award-winning Core Team:

• Owner: Longfellow Real Estate Partners
• Architecture: HOK
• Construction: Truebeck
• Civil : BKF Engineers