| This project was unique due to the coordination of all aspects of the design and construction from inception. The attractiveness of the design while maintaining the budget created challenges in workmanship and scheduling. However, the Owner’s desire to employ the latest in technology helped to make this project one of a kind in Frederick. Some of the considerations that were taken into account were:
• The Pre-Engineered building was designed to allow for future expansion
• Haul-off of approximately 15,000 cubic yards of material required to be removed by roughly 1300 trucks along with final grading before construction of the building could commence.
• Coordination and City of Frederick approval of the site plan to meet the requirement for a bay filter treatment and storm retention system were accounted for and achieved. The system was designed to be placed underground due to the site constraints. Site limitations and scheduling of activities needed to be managed to properly control the flow of each individual subcontractor.
• Mechanical systems were carefully designed to accommodate a fully conditioned space for the shop area as well as conditioned space for offices and a mezzanine. Pad mounted gas fired HVAC units were installed outside to minimize the floor space need for mechanical rooms and minimized load requirements on the pre-engineered building. Split systems were used in the front office/mezzanine area and designed to hang from the structure to alleviate the need for mechanical rooms.
• Electrical systems were planned for future expansion of the building and to accommodate all of the owner’s equipment.
• Concrete Floors were customized to accept paint booth pits as well as recessed car lifts.
• Oversized over heads doors were installed to accommodate larger vehicles.
• Although sink holes that are common to Frederick were not encountered, rock was uncovered in many locations including underground utilities and foundations. These discoveries created challenges to the schedule and budget. However, with the design-build contracting method along with our relationship with the Owner, we were able to address each item without difficulty.
The overall project was a great success and the end result was a state-of-the-art collision center that is adorned by both the contractor and Owner!
In addition to the finish theme, great care was placed on fully coordinating the placement of the service area equipment to ensure production and provide a comfortable and safe work environment. The routing of all services were considered and analyzed based on the location of each bay’s high-lift. High bay lighting and mid-point lighting, compressed air systems, exhaust fans, ductwork, infrared tube heaters, power reels, and cable trays were installed to accommodate each of the ten service bays and their associated lifts. |
