ChastainSkillman | DCCM partnered with Ryan Companies to support the design and construction of the new Citrus Innovation Center at Florida Polytechnic University (FPU)—a 30,000-square-foot facility that marks a significant milestone in FPU’s public-private partnerships.

Our team provided the following services:

• Civil Site Design
  Developed comprehensive civil engineering design drawings and construction specifications, including site grading and drainage, sanitary sewer and water distribution systems, and erosion control plans.

• Site Permitting
  Prepared and submitted permit applications for:

  • Southwest Florida Water Management District (Environmental Resource Permit)
  • Florida Department of Environmental Protection (Wastewater Collection/Transmission System Permit)
  • City of Lakeland (Commercial Site Plan Review)

• Limited Construction Services
  Conducted on-site construction observation during key phases to ensure general conformance with approved plans.

The Citrus Innovation Center is a collaborative effort between FPU and International Flavors and Fragrances (IFF) — the first company to establish a presence on the university’s campus. IFF has committed to supporting FPU through funding for research, student projects, and academic programs, as well as providing internships and career opportunities.

The facility will advance citrus research for applications in the food, beverage, and fragrance industries. It will feature research laboratories, sensory experience environments, and a citrus garden.