Hilton Coliseum MEP Systems Study

Project Description  

In 2018, Resource Consulting Engineers, LLC was engaged by Iowa State University to assess critical system performance issues at Hilton Coliseum, a high-profile athletic and event venue on campus. The University sought expert evaluation of mechanical, electrical, plumbing (MEP), and fire protection systems due to increasing comfort complaints, reliability concerns, and aging infrastructure.

Our team conducted a comprehensive facility study, identified system deficiencies, and provided a phased set of recommendations — many of which have since been successfully implemented by the University to enhance performance, reliability, and long-term maintainability.

Scope of Work  

Resource Consulting Engineers conducted a detailed building systems assessment across the following disciplines:

Mechanical Systems

• Evaluated performance and functionality of attic-level and 4th-level air handling units (AHUs)

• Analyzed ventilation effectiveness and building pressurization

• Reviewed HVAC system configuration, isolation capability, and winter/summer performance risks

Electrical Systems

• Assessed the aging vertical bus duct system

• Reviewed the condition and compliance of the fire alarm and emergency power systems

Plumbing Systems

• Investigated hot water system redundancy and performance

• Identified galvanized piping issues and valve limitations

Fire Protection

• Reviewed existing fire suppression system coverage and opportunities for expansion

Deliverables

• Phased recommendations across 0–3 year and 5–10 year timeframes

• System-specific upgrade strategies for long-term operation and code compliance

Challenge Faced 

Hilton Coliseum posed multiple facility-wide challenges:

• Occupant discomfort in both public and private zones

• Non-operational or underperforming AHUs resulting in code-deficient ventilation and humidity control

• A lack of isolation valves created system-wide shutdowns during routine maintenance

• Incomplete or aging electrical and fire alarm infrastructure

• Galvanized piping failures and plumbing system vulnerabilities

• Partial fire suppression coverage and unclear documentation

Additionally, negative building pressurization exposed the facility to freeze-ups in the winter and humidity control issues during Iowa’s humid summer months.

Project Outcome 

Following the study, Iowa State University received a prioritized, discipline-specific action plan to address the most critical system needs and support long-term capital planning. Recommendations were divided by urgency:

Short-Term (0–3 Years)

• Replace failed 4th-level AHUs

• Install isolation valves on steam and chilled water mains

• Replace leaking galvanized piping and add redundancy to the hot water system

• Conduct life safety review of fire alarm/emergency systems and perform a blackout test

Mid-Term (5–10 Years)

• Upgrade attic-level AHUs

• Replace the full-length vertical bus duct system

• Continue expanding sprinkler coverage as part of future renovations

The study provided Iowa State with a roadmap to systematically improve facility comfort, system reliability, and code compliance — all while enhancing operational flexibility and reducing maintenance risks.