Seismic Corrections in Eight Buildings

IMEG, serving as a subconsultant, provided engineering services on a multi-disciplined team to develop a Project Book, addressing eight buildings on the Jonathan M. Wainwright VAMC campus that required seismic retrofitting and renovations to correct non-structural seismic deficiencies. A total of over 125,000-sf, these eight buildings include multiple administrative buildings, a specialty care building, clinic, and canteen; facilities of particular consideration within these buildings included the VA Police and Campus OIT Server Room.

The objective of the Project Book was to identify and define the project requirements necessary to manage the risk (by confirming the scope) in establishing the budget for a new Capital Asset project. The Project Book was a collection of pre-design information that resulted in a reliable definition of project requirements and formed the foundation of all subsequent design efforts for this project. Tasks Included:

  • Kick-off Meeting and Partnering Session
  • Perform Tier 1 and Tier 2 Seismic Studies on all building structures and systems
  • Site Topographic and Utility Surveys
  • Assessment of Physical Infrastructure
  • Project Planning and Programmatic Assistance
  • Site & Buildings Physical Security Analysis
  • Sustainable Design, Energy Reduction, Renewable Energy Use
  • Telecommunications Survey
  • Codes, Standards and Requirements
  • Consolidate Project Requirements
  • Cost Reconciliation and Provide Deliverables (as required)

Challenges that were addressed while developing the Project Book included:

  • Incorporating requirements needed to relocate existing campus technology server room to a new building.
  • Coordinating the extent of the structural upgrades with building floor plans and systems.
  • Determining a potential phasing plan to allow for appropriate funding, swing space, and efficiency.
  • Due to the major renovation impact from building seismic upgrades, ensuring the utility physical security requirements are outlined.
  • Reviewing and outlining any required upgrades to campus systems, such as fiber, steam, and electrical, including emergency fuel storage and generators.

Upon completion and presentation of the Project Book, the deliverables will be presented to the selected design firm, with an estimated construction value of $90.5 million.

Owner
U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Project Book
Location
Walla Walla, WA
Size
122,310-sf
Services Provided

Civil, Structural, Mechanical, Electrical, Plumbing, Fire Protection, Technology, Survey