South Campus Utility Plant and Distribution System
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Modernization of Campus Heating and Cooling System Decreases Carbon Emissions

Part of a broader master plan, Phase I of this project consisted of the new construction of the hot water and chilled water plant on the South Campus. Trinity selected DOC to provide preconstruction and construction services.

During preconstruction, our team implemented the initial estimates, provided constructability reviews, and formulated site logistics, emphasizing safety since the college was active during construction.

While performing the construction phase, DOC’s main logistical challenge was completing the work on an active campus when renovating the residential community courtyard in Phase II. To ensure safety compliance with the college’s desired schedule, DOC adjusted working hours and provided weekly logistics plans to phase the work around the school calendar.

Project Highlights
  • Logistical Coordination: During preconstruction, DOC utilized a 360-degree BIM walk-through, building scans, deploying our drone services, and on-site test pit investigations.
  • Key Scope Aspects:
    • New hot and chilled water plant with underground distribution piping throughout the South Campus.
    • Retrofitting individual mechanical and electrical rooms in seven buildings.
    • Replacement of the main switchgear paired with a new MV switch & transformer at the utility plant—updates and expands the campus electrical network.
    • Installation of adiabatic cooling towers on the rooftop of the new Utility Plant which is adjacent to the Buildings and Ground Facilities.
    • Replaced the aging steam systems with efficient plate and frame heat exchangers that service heating and domestic hot water.
    • Revamp of the first year residential community laundry facilities and the exterior quad, which includes new retaining walls, stairs, rails, paver’s, lighting, and plantings.

The project scope required performing within a student housing quad and logistically, working within the tight courtyard was comparable to a city-like atmosphere in terms of space with limited access and maneuverability. Therefore, it required a high level of planning and safety precautions.”

Ethan Jones
Lead Project Manager, DOC
Kevin Burns

Project Contact

Fall River Wastewater Treatment Facility Improvements
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Upgrading Key Infrastructure While Improving Administrative Spaces

The Fall River Wastewater Treatment Facility (WWTF) is an oxygen-activated sludge secondary treatment plant with an average monthly permitted capacity of 31 mgd and treats flows from a combined sewer system. The WWTF wet weather capacity is 106 mgd for primary treatment/disinfection and 50 mgd for secondary treatment processes.

The project consists of process upgrades to the thickening, dewatering, sludge storage, and odor control systems of the solids processing facilities. A new building was constructed as an expansion of the existing Solids Handling Building that includes personnel locker rooms, offices, a laboratory, and administrative spaces. Renovations to the existing Administration Building consist of offices, restrooms, a lunchroom, and a training/conference room. All buildings consist of architectural, structural, HVAC, plumbing, electrical, and instrumentation and control upgrades or new work. The project also includes demolition, hazardous materials abatement, and/or disposal, site work, yard piping, and electrical/instrumentation distribution.

Project Highlights
  • Addition and Renovation: The project includes both an out-of-the-ground addition and a gut renovation.
  • BIM Services: The DOC Catalyst Group provided coordination of all trades at four different buildings on site using BIM.
  • Selective Demolition: Demo of all existing process equipment and piping, miscellaneous concrete, and building demolition.
  • Logistical Complexity: Maintain existing sludge disposal operations during construction through several different methods including the use of a portable sludge thickening unit.
  • Self-Perform Work: Includes form, place, and finish concrete of walls and slabs. Excavate and install ductile iron and HDPE yard piping. Process mechanical equipment installation includes 2 odor control units, chemical storage tanks, bubble diffusers, and several different styles of pumps. Process pipe installation including PVC, FRP ducting, ductile iron, and stainless steel.
  • Support of Excavation (SOE): The administration building renovation required underpinning.
Hamilton College Root Hall Renovation
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Iconic Building Becomes a More Functional, Accessible, and Sustainable Space

This project includes interior and exterior renovation of a 22,000 sf four-story academic building in the heart of campus. This historical building, originally built in 1897, houses the Africa Studies, Classics, Religious Studies, and Women’s and Gender Studies departments.

The renovation comprises twenty offices, five classrooms, four meeting spaces, and additional areas for meeting and learning. Accessibility improvements include an ADA-accessible entrance on the west side of the building, a new elevator, and accessible restrooms on all four levels. On the exterior, the team excavated the foundation and installed below-grade waterproofing. The original stone façade was power-washed and selectively repointed. New landscape plantings, hardscape, and granite seat walls were installed on the building perimeter.

Sustainability upgrades include a new insulated roof, new energy-efficient windows, LED lighting, and geothermal wells for heating and cooling. Skylights on the fourth floor were upgraded, bringing more natural light into the space. The second floor has a movable glass wall that can open to create a wide space for larger gatherings or be closed for use as a conference room.

Project Highlights
  • BIM Services: The DOC Catalyst group utilized a 3D laser scanner after the interior demolition to develop a detailed 3D model. The team used the model throughout the project for more collaborative coordination with trade partners of the MEPs and structural work.
  • Lean Construction: The team used Daily Huddles to review commitments and daily adjustments to be made in response to changes and significant re-planning.
  • Geothermal Wells: DOC managed the installation of 15 wells to a depth of 499 feet as part of an overall system for the building’s heating and cooling.
  • Exterior Radiant Heat: A hydronic snow melt system was installed at the two exterior entrance plazas of the building and a sloped walkway.
Rakks Manufacturing Facility Renovation
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The Full Transformation of a Building into a Facility Designed for Innovation and Lean Manufacturing

This project is renovating an existing one-story building into a design and manufacturing facility for modern architectural shelving systems. Rakks designs and manufactures all of its products at this facility in Westborough, Massachusetts. The construction work was completed in two major phases. The scope in phase one included demolition and abatement of interior spaces, installation of new MEP/FP systems, roof replacement, electrical and sprinkler closets, and other miscellaneous repairs. Phase two included an office space fit-out, a new façade, a solar panel system on the roof, exterior signs, an exterior patio, and other site improvements. This fit-out also included new bathrooms and shower facilities for the employees.

During the preconstruction, laser scanning was used to develop a BIM model of the interior and exterior of the existing building to support MEP coordination activities. The project team utilized Lean Pull Planning to collaborate with subcontractors and organize the work on an accelerated schedule. Self-perform work included demolition, general labor, general carpentry, and concrete.

Project Highlights
  • A complex site logistics plan was needed for the project as it’s located on a busy highway along Route 9 and next to a large home improvement store in Westborough, MA.
  • DOC worked as the design-builder on a full M/E/P systems upgrade for the building.
  • The project site is adjacent to wetlands along the Assabet River. The team coordinated with the Westborough Conservation Commission and the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection (MASSDEP).
  • The DOC team worked closely with National Grid for the installation of new electrical services and a transformer.
  • The construction included a large solar panel installation on the roof that provides primary power to the building and its HVAC systems. We worked with SolBid, a premier commercial solar energy company, on the design and installation of these solar panels.
  • The new parking area incorporated the installation of an EV charging station for use by employees and guests.
WPI Stratton Hall Renovation
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A Major Renovation for One of the University’s Most Active Academic Buildings

Originally built in 1894, Stratton Hall stands as a historic 24,000 sq. ft. building housing WPI’s esteemed math department and multiple classrooms. In response to extensive deferred maintenance issues, this renovation project aimed to revitalize the structure, focusing on windows, MEP systems, and overall finishes. Accessibility enhancements, life safety improvements, and the complete integration of modern facilities were key components of this ambitious endeavor.

This comprehensive renovation not only restores the historic charm of Stratton Hall but also ensures that it stands as a modern, energy-efficient, and accessible hub for WPI’s math department, fostering a conducive learning environment for generations to come. The strategic connection to the Laurie A. Leshin Global Project Center further strengthens campus integration and ensures compliance with ADA standards.

Project Highlights
  • An initial feasibility study paved the way for an efficient preconstruction phase and multiple early release packages expedited the project timeline.
  • A complete gut renovation of a 130-year-old, four-story masonry and wood timber building, with removal of existing masonry penthouse structure and roof infill. Structural modifications to the roof structure to support new rooftop mechanical equipment necessitate extensive shoring.
  • Inclusion of a new five-story addition/connector with a roof penthouse and connection to the Laurie A. Leshin Global Project Center at two levels.
  • Implementation of new high-efficiency HVAC and lighting systems, removal and replacement of 127 exterior windows, and comprehensive roofing system removal and replacement.
  • Selective brick and brownstone repair/replacement and cleaning of the entire masonry facade and new utility services, landscaping, hardscape, and handicap ramp for improved site aesthetics and functionality.
  • Mechanical, electrical, and plumbing (MEP) tie-ins to adjacent Powerhouse and Leshin Global Project Center buildings along with fire protection and fire alarm system upgrades.
Hamilton College Burke Library Renovation
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A Refreshed Space for Collaboration and Creativity

This interior library renovation on the first floor includes a new dedicated makerspace, called the TECH Lab, which has areas for virtual/augmented reality and 3D design and printing. Four soundproof production booths provide acoustical isolation for vocal recording sessions. A new permanent classroom for Library and Information Technology (LITS) instruction and new offices for its library staff. A movable glass partition is installed in the All-night Reading Room. Two digital kiosks highlighting collections, programs, and services at the entrances to the library. LED lighting is installed for better energy conservation. There’s a modified bathroom to increase accessibility. Upgraded finishes in the library include new furniture, carpet, ceilings, and help desks. Upgrades to critical electrical infrastructure and emergency power are also a part of the project.

DOC is familiar with working in an occupied setting on the Hamilton campus having recently completed several construction projects. The original 80,000-square-foot library was built by DOC. The Brutalist style building was designed by architect Hugh Stubbins and the construction was completed in 1972.

Project Highlights
  • Fast Track Schedule: The majority of the construction work was conducted during the summer break to take advantage of a time when most students and faculty are away.
  • Logistically Complex Site: The project site, situated in the heart of the campus, presented logistical complexities.
  • Effective Coordination and Collaboration: The success of the project is attributed to a high level of coordination and collaboration among the project team, designers, and subcontractors
  • Coordination with adjacent construction: The DOC team prioritized seamless execution, minimizing disruptions to college students, faculty, and staff, even as other construction work unfolded elsewhere on campus.
Campus Energy Conversion Phase I
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College’s Green Revolution: Phase One of Geothermal Heat-Exchange System Replacement for Sustainable Future

This is the first phase of a multi-year project to replace a 100-year-old fossil fuel-powered steam heating system with a new geothermal heat-exchange system powered by clean electricity. This system will help the college reduce its greenhouse gas emissions by 80%.

In the first phase, DOC will connect multiple buildings on campus to the new distribution system. This work includes demolition, excavation, installation of new piping, backfilling of excavation areas, concrete pads, and repaving roads.

Project Highlights
  • Coordination with existing below grade infrastructure: The first phase of work connected multiple buildings on campus, including Shattuck, Cleveland, Carr, Kendade, Safford, and Skinner halls, to the new underground distribution system.
  • Coordination with adjacent construction: Working across multiple campus buildings, and below grade between buildings, required the DOC team to actively coordinate with other work happening on campus. The team kept open communication with the college’s Facilities Management Planning & Construction group to ensure that the project work did not interfere with any other construction activities.
Campus Energy System Decarbonization Phase I
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Decade-Long Campus Energy Evolution: Achieving Carbon Neutrality through Groundbreaking Geothermal Transformation

This 10-year, multi-phase project is the complete transformation of campus energy infrastructure as part of Amherst College’s Climate Action Plan to achieve carbon neutrality by 2030. The goal is to move from the college’s current fossil fuel based heating and cooling plant and distribution network, into a campus-wide, ground source (geothermal) electric heat system.

The scope of work includes drilling and installation of a closed-loop geothermal well system connected to heat pumps and conversion of individual building heating systems.

The first phase of work was completed in the fall of 2023.

Project Highlights
  • Coordination with existing below grade infrastructure: New infrastructure installed throughout an active campus, interior MEP upgrades done in occupied buildings, piping jacked under existing/active railroad.
  • Coordination with adjacent construction: Phasing of the project was required to work around campus schedule and complete the design of the overall campus.
  • Schedule and Risk Management: DOC provided multiple cost estimates, constructability reviews, MEP systems design reviews and railroads permit assistance.
  • Unusual Permitting Requirements: DOC secured the railroad permit required to jack new piping underneath existing/active tracks.
  • Diversity and Community Outreach: DOC implemented programs to comply with Amherst College’s campus wide diversity program and articipated in several community outreach programs to ensure compliance with diversity goals set by the college.
Bucklin Point Wastewater Treatment Plant Operations and Maintenance/Storage Buildings
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A New Modern Facility that Upgrades and Improves Building Capacities and Other Ancillary Support Systems for Vital Water Infrastructure

This project includes the construction of two new state-of-the-art buildings at the Bucklin Point Wastewater Treatment Facility. The Maintenance and Storage Building is a 28,000 square-foot two-story building with a brick and metal panel facade. The space includes storage on the first floor and a mix of office and maintenance space on the second floor. The New Operations Building replaces the existing Administration Building (demolished as part of the project). This building is similar to the Maintenance building, in appearance, but includes more office and assembly space among its total 22,000 sf. This building now includes the main SCADA control room that was relocated from the Screening and Grit Building. There’s also a lab for conducting water tests for the water treatment facility. Other areas include a boardroom, a lunchroom and kitchen, a locker room, and an exercise area.

During preconstruction, the team was focused on multiple critical tracks including Soil Borings/Survey and Permitting with RIDEM, program verification and space planning, two phases of early bid packages, and four phases of CDs. Deliverables for each of the CD sets included close coordination with the owner and end users, constructability reviews, value engineering options, and estimating support. This process also included several design-assist subcontractors for mechanical, electrical, and plumbing scopes of work.

Project Highlights
  • During construction, the facility needed to remain open 24/7. This required the fit-out of a temporary office, lab, and Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition system (SCADA) facilities for the Narragansett Bay Commission to maintain plant operations throughout the construction phase.
  • Detailed BIM coordination helped inform the design process. The project team held multiple weekly meetings to track design progress utilizing Miro as a scheduling tool as well as project update meetings and design review meetings with the owner and end users.
  • Logistics and schedule development were a critical part of preconstruction and the team focused on vetting and updating these plans to ensure that the project did not disrupt plant operations at any time.
Modernization of Sussman House
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Urban Senior Housing Renewal: Complex Renovation Balances Occupancy, Logistics, and Innovative Design

The Sussman House was originally constructed in 1965 as a concrete cast 9-story superstructure with copper sheet metal facades. This high-rise apartment building, home to seniors and disabled households, needed major interior renovations and exterior repairs. The scope of work includes kitchen and bath upgrades for 100 residential units, upgrades to building MEP systems, replacement of finishes in common areas, window replacement, roof replacement, and exterior recladding of the building. The project also includes reconfiguring an attached first-floor common room and property management office. The building was substantially occupied throughout the construction process, with unit renovation being undertaken in a phased approach.

Project Highlights
  • Logistic Complexity: Occupied building renovation on a tight urban site requires detailed phasing and site logistics plans to allow residents safe access to the building and their units during construction
  • The project utilized the Design Assist method for early bid packages for the exterior wall cladding and curtainwall systems
  • The project team used Takt Planning to establish a rhythm, continuity, and consistency of the workflow. This method allows worker counts, material inventory, information, equipment usage, supervision, and administration needs to be leveled with consistency.