Project Description  

The project involves expanding the two existing classroom wings at the south end of a school facility within the Ames Community School District. The goal is to add new classrooms while upgrading and integrating essential building systems to support the additions and improve overall environmental performance.

Scope of Work  

The additions include comprehensive modifications to existing systems:

• Plumbing, mechanical/HVAC, and electrical power
• Lighting, low-voltage systems (fire alarm, clock/bell, communications), and fire protection
• Enhancements to the ventilation system to improve dehumidification using:
  • A dedicated outdoor air system (DOAS)
  • Variable air volume (VAV) boxes to match the ventilation load of the space
  • Automatic balancing dampers to ensure ventilation was consistently being provided
  • Upgrades to the ground source heat pump system
• Development of detailed sequences of operation for the direct digital control (DDC) system

Challenge Faced 

A key challenge was the installation of the air handler within a constrained mechanical space. This required:

• Breaking the air handler into smaller, manageable components
• Intensive coordination to ensure all parts could be reassembled with proper clearances
• Maintaining system performance and accessibility post-installation

Project Outcome 

The project successfully expanded classroom capacity while modernizing building systems to enhance comfort, efficiency, and control. The upgraded HVAC and control systems are designed to deliver improved indoor air quality and thermal comfort, aligning with the District’s goals for a healthy and adaptable learning environment.