West Des Moines Public Safety Station 18

Project Description  

The systems serving occupied portions of Public Safety Station 18 had failed to meet expected comfort levels since the building was constructed. Additionally, maintenance issues related to the original system design prevented a design using limited system modifications. After review, a number of issues with existing systems led to a determination that reuse of existing components was not appropriate. Based on this analysis, a full mechanical system retrofit was completed for the building.

Scope of Work  

RCE served as the prime consultant, providing mechanical and electrical engineering services. OPN Architects served as the architectural sub-consultant. RCE worked directly with the Owner and Contractors from the start of the project through the completion of construction.

Challenge Faced 

The existing site conditions limited options for systems and components. The building is also composed of numerous small spaces, with most requiring individual temperature control.

Project Outcome 

A number of system options were reviewed, and a system using packaged variable volume rooftop units with energy recovery and condensing boilers for heating was designed. Coordination was completed with a separate consultant planning future envelope improvements for the building.