Columbia Greene Community College Construction Technology Building

What was the Challenge?

B&L collaborated with JMZ Architects and Columbia Greene Community College to develop programming, schematic design development, and construction documents to house a new and unique construction technology/preservation carpentry certification program. The new facility includes a single-story classroom, student resource/lounge area and construction technology lab designed to accommodate hands-on construction activities and skill learning.

How did Barton & Loguidice provide a solution?

B&L provided site/civil, structural, mechanical, fire protection and electrical engineering design for the new facility. The site/civil design included a new water service connection, sanitary sewer manhole and force main, new electrical service from an adjacent building, exterior paved construction space, landscaping and site grading. The mechanical design included an energy efficient hot water boiler system with in-floor radiant heat in the construction technology lab space, rooftop air handling units with hot water heating coils, variable volume air system for the classroom, offices and lounge area, and exhaust system for the toilet facilities. The plumbing design included new water service and sewer services to the building, toilet room fixtures and kitchenette. The fire protection design included a full sprinkler system throughout the building with a dedicated water supply line with alarm valve and fire department connection. The electrical design incorporated energy efficient LED interior and exterior lighting, new building electrical service, power distribution, campus wide mass communication system, security, and a data/communication system.

Why was the project a success?

The new facility provides a unique interior and exterior space for construction activities providing students with hands-on experience in using power tools and wood working skills used in the construction industry. The construction technology lab has a ceiling height of 15 feet with clearstory windows around the upper perimeter providing natural light throughout the space. The facility also includes a traditional classroom and student resource area where construction plans can be developed for use in the lab – all housed within one building. The success of the project was due to the collaborative design efforts with JMZ Architects, B&L and the College to provide an efficient and functional space for the new educational program.