Allen + Shariff provided MEP engineering for the design and construction of a new $7.1M, 12,426 SF, single story, police station. MEP engineering included utilizing “common-sense sustainable design practices.” The complete project was developed as a packaged product with alternates separated into independent bid packages and submissions.

The mechanical design was comprised of a variable refrigerant flow (VRF) heat recovery system, designed for simultaneous heating and cooling, with most spaces provided with ceiling cassette units. A ducted VRF air handling unit was provided for areas with inmate interaction. Maximum security air devices were provided in the holding cells. Ventilation air was provided by a dedicated outside air system (DOAS) unit, ducted directly to the VRF cassettes and return ducts of air handling units. Exhaust / relief air was ducted back through the DOAS unit for energy recovery. The sally port has an infrared radiant heater. A separate VRF system was incorporated to serve the annex training room and support spaces, as that portion of the building was bid as an add alternate to be evaluated based on construction bids.

The plumbing design for this this project consisted of civilian style fixtures for office and public areas, but also included penal fixtures for the detainee portion of the building. Domestic, vent, and gas piping was carefully coordinated with the secured detainee area lay-in ceiling taking special consideration where valving and service panels were to be located. A domestic hot water temperature maintenance loop was designed to ensure that hot water was delivered to all areas in an expeditious and energy efficient manner. Domestic hot water generation was designed to implement a condensing water heater with a maximum 96% efficient operating capacity. Plumbing drainage piping and fixtures considered the needs of the penal area to minimize any unforeseen vandalism that may occur. The fire protection system was a wet and dry system sized for the added dry system and sloped roof demands. Institutional type sprinkler heads were segregated to the holding area while more traditional heads were used throughout the light and ordinary hazard occupancies.

Electrical design provided a 600A 208Y/120V 3Ø/4W electrical distribution system with a 250kW emergency diesel generator to serve the whole building. Interior lighting was provided via LED lighting fixtures and IECC compliant lighting controls, including lighting to serve detention areas, and controls that interconnect with interrogation room AV recording systems. LED site lighting was provided for parking lots, pedestrian walkways, recreation areas, and building mounting security lighting. A fire alarm system, including initiating, smoke detection, door release, and notification appliances was provided throughout the facility.

Project Details

Client: Davis, Bowen & Friedel, Inc.

Square Footage: 12,426

Services: MEP Engineering