PAB System Upgrades

This project encompasses the full engineering services required for the extensive upgrade and renovation of the support systems within a large, multi-story administrative building. The scope is divided into design and construction administration phases, focusing on critical infrastructure modernization.

1. Design

• Comprehensive Survey & Assessment: Conduct a thorough survey of the building, reviewing existing documentation (including a deficiency report and feasibility study) to identify mechanical, electrical, and plumbing (MEP) deficiencies across all levels. This includes assessing old fuel tanks, water pumps, water heaters, main water valves, fire suppression and alarm systems, and building sprinkler systems.
• HVAC System Upgrade: Design and provide construction documents for upgrading multiple indoor units, including calculations for required building air supply/exhaust and cooling loads. This also involves obtaining necessary air quality permits.
• Energy Performance & Electrification: Involves integrating Building Energy Performance Standards (BEPS) into the design, focusing on high-performance insulation, energy-efficient HVAC, and minimizing consumption. Includes incorporating renewable energy systems for a Net Zero Energy pathway, designing for full electrification with a preference for heat pump technology, and ensuring equipment is “heat-pump ready.” Finally, a Life Cycle Cost Analysis (LCCA) for HVAC options, including onsite solar PV, will be conducted to compare financial metrics and operational greenhouse gas emissions.
• Building Automation System (BAS) Integration: Connect the building’s BAS to a unified interface for monitoring and control, performing asset tagging according to industry-standard protocols.
• Electrical Service Modernization: Provide construction documents for upgrading the building’s electrical service, including replacement/reservicing of substations and branch circuit panels, and submitting electrical load calculations for code analysis.
• Fire Protection & Life Safety Systems:
  • Design for necessary changes and additions to the existing fire alarm system, ensuring compliance with accessibility codes for notification devices.
  • Design a complete new fire suppression system, removing existing components, and replacing all sprinkler heads and corroded distribution pipes. This includes field testing of fire hydrants and hydraulic calculations.
• Plumbing System Upgrades: Provide construction documents for replacing water pumps, fixtures, and water heaters. Address the replacement of old and leaking main water valves and termination valves, and resolve clogged rainwater drainage systems.
• Hazardous Materials: A hazmat report is recommended for permitting reasons.
• Design Deliverables: Produce detailed construction documents and specifications in CSI MasterFormat, including a comprehensive submittal schedule. Process and secure all necessary building permits.

2. Construction Administration

• Pre-Bid & Pre-Construction Meetings: Attend and lead meetings, explain project requirements, answer contractor questions, and distribute minutes. Provide stamped permit drawings to the contractor.
• Substitutions & Schedule Management: Review proposed substitutions and ensure the contractor’s master schedule aligns with project duration, identifying long-lead items.
• Compliance & Progress Monitoring: Oversee work to ensure compliance with design and specifications, conduct bi-weekly progress meetings, and maintain updated submittal logs.
• Drawing Review: Review and approve contractor shop drawings and “As-Built” drawings for accuracy and conformity.
• Testing & Commissioning Oversight: Witness HVAC testing and balancing, and oversee the testing of complete fire suppression and detection systems to secure necessary approvals.
• Documentation: Maintain comprehensive records of meetings, schedules, submittals, and test results.

This project requires a highly coordinated approach, addressing significant infrastructure challenges within an occupied facility, with a strong emphasis on energy efficiency, life safety, and long-term sustainability.