EVS was a member of the team which one of two firms were selected for the USAR Model Energy Pilot Program. We were charged with exploring and developing new standards for building design as well as the process that the Army Reserve uses to deliver their projects.
Our task was to focus on the challenges of the northern, heating driven climate in Binghamton, New York while still meeting all of the project mission requirements within the base building budget and schedule. With open minds, EVS and our government partners questioned everything and explored an array of alternatives using computer modeling and forecasting to test and validate design alternatives. Often, the findings were surprising, debunking standard design methods and assumptions. These “ah-ha” moments caused us to make substantial revisions regarding how the building is orientated on the site; the volume and basic structure of the building; window locations; the interior program layout and even how visitors approach the building.
In the end, the team identified improvements to key process and delivery methods that are currently being incorporated into both the Army Reserve and Army project delivery methodology. The complete design incorporates all of the features required to achieve LEED Platinum and Net Zero for both energy and water use. RSP is providing the Commissioning Agent for Enhanced Commissioning Services (CxA) throughout design and construction. Both the 34,758 SF Training Center and 8,100 SF Organizational Maintenance Shop feature world-class design through day lighting, energy efficient electrical and mechanical building systems, spatial arrangements, and materials and color selection.
