construction for the PHASE 1B ADAPTIVE REUSE - ST. ELIZABETHS CAMPUS


Left: Interior of Building 33 - the dining hall; the new roof decking can be seen. Right: Building 34 with its roofing structure completely removed.
By: Gary Gehringer, Jr. Project Engineer
Introduction
The Phase 1B adaptive reuse of the Saint Elizabeth’s Hospital campus is a multiphase project that will consolidate the Department of Homeland Security. Since the campus is considered a historic landmark, GSA’s goal is to achieve maximum build-out for Federal use while maintaining the historic character of the West Campus.
Grunley is currently renovating five separate and unique historical buildings on the campus. Each building is designed to achieve a LEED gold rating under the LEED 2009 New Construction and Major Renovation Standard.
Current Status
- Building 31, Atkins Hall, originally a dormitory, is going to be adapted into office space along with an environmentally controlled file storage area. A new slate roof has been installed and solar panels have been fitted, which will provide supplemental power to the building. The below-grade water-proofing system has been installed around the perimeter of the building. The air handling units, including an intricate descant unit, have been mounted. Ongoing work in the building includes: the historic restoration of the existing windows and window frames, metal framing and mechanical and electrical installation throughout the building.
- Building 34 was formerly a kitchen and Building 33 was a dining hall. Both buildings are being restored and modernized to perform their original functions. The existing steel that supported the roof of Building 34 has been removed and an upgraded system installed. In Building 33, the original roofing deck is being repaired and structurally enhanced by Grunley carpenters. New electrical switchgear has been set inside Building 33 to eventually supply power to both buildings. Ongoing work includes repointing of masonry at Building 34 and the continued installation of duct work and plumbing in both buildings. Grunley will subsequently re-build the connector bridge which previously linked both buildings.
- Building 37, also known as Hitchcock Hall, is a large 600-seat theater. The existing windows have been removed and will be restored to their original likeness. The theater’s stage is being re-purposed to act as a conference space. Structural steel members are being installed to facilitate this change. Major electrical components have arrived and are awaiting installation. Ongoing activities include: structural steel work in the stage area and installation of below-grade waterproofing around the perimeter of the building.


Left: The exterior of Building 37. Right: The interior of Building 37 shows new steel columns being erected for the repurposing of the original stage area.
- Building 49, formally a construction and maintenance building, will be renovated and expanded to include a health and fitness complex. The Architect has released the final design of Building 49 so construction can soon get underway. Currently, Building 49 is in the demolition phase.
Continued Progress
In Building 31, piping and electrical utilities will be installed and the interior fit-out. Building 33 will start installation of roofing and new clerestory windows. A new roofing structure will be installed on Building 34. The bridge that connects Building 33 and 34 will be completed. Sheeting, shoring and excavation will begin for the new demark room at Building 37. There will be continued planning, coordination and demolition at Building 49.
Date Posted: March 27, 2012