To support the new KC-46A aircraft training program at Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst, the FSB team renovated 5,000 SF of the existing 35,830 SF building, plus added 21,000 SF of new office and training areas. The project afforded ample space for large-scale mock-ups, 20 classrooms, 12 virtual training rooms, a high-bay trainer space, and training devices to provide specialized hands-on training.

The facility had to meet all federal electronic and physical security requirements, including compliance with antiterrorism and force protection security standards and blast rated design and detailing. In addition, all control systems (including systems separate from an energy management control system) were planned and designed to be acquired, executed and maintained in accordance with federal cybersecurity security standards. High Performance and Sustainable Buildings (HPSB) Guiding Principles where utilized for the design and third-party certification was utilized to confirm the project adequately utilized Integrated Design, Commissioning in accordance with ASHRAE 189.1, optimized Energy Performance and Metering, evaluated Renewable and Clean Energy, conserved water, processed stormwater, implemented lighting and thermal comfort controls, air quality, low emitting materials and managed materials and waste. All decisions were based upon compliance with federal energy laws and were evaluated for lifecycle cost effectiveness. From the programming and planning phases through the design phase our team worked closely with the facility owners and users to develop a renovation and expansion plan to meet their needs and provide for a flexible design. The technical design team worked to marry new HVAC, electrical, and structural systems with those of the existing facility to provide for a seamless expansion. We provided technical quality control review teams and we prepared construction cost estimates for government review at each design phase.

Of particular challenge was the project’s construction phasing. Without alternative/swing space for the facility users, the design team was tasked with ensuring that at least four classrooms were accessible, operational, and able to be utilized at all times. Our team proposed phased construction sequencing for the work to require the addition to be completed prior to renovating the existing classroom areas. Additionally, phasing was required for site work and re-routing of utilities to avoid disrupting service to the facility and adjacent buildings.