Construction Projects Completed in 2012

Here are the major construction projects that were completed during 2012:

Allyn Hall HVAC Replacement and Student Room Improvements
This summer, the two-pipe heating-only system was replaced with a four-pipe system capable of providing heating and cooling to student residential rooms in Allyn Hall. New heating and cooling now provide improved student comfort, especially during the summer months and the Destination Kent State new student orientation program. In addition, the flooring was abated and the old built-in closets were removed to provide a fresh look to the rooms. (Engineer: Dynamix Engineering; Single Prime General Contractor: DSV Builders, Inc.)

Ashtabula, East Liverpool, Geauga, Salem and Trumbull Campus-Wide Energy Conservation Project
Energy conservation measures implemented by The Brewer-Garrett Company at Ashtabula, East Liverpool, Geauga, Salem and Trumbull campuses will exceed House Bill 251’s 20% energy use reduction goals with guaranteed 38% energy reduction and 42% greenhouse gas reduction. The project is utilizing performance contracting under House Bill 7 for payback of project cost with guaranteed energy savings over a maximum 15-year time period. Total project costs are not to exceed $5,400,000 with over $442,500 total annual guaranteed utility cost savings. Installation processes continued through early August. Boilers were replaced at the Ashtabula Library, Main Hall, and Health and Science Building, Trumbull Science and Technology Building, and the Salem City Center. Select air handler components and several complete air handler replacements were installed. At all five campuses, indoor fluorescent lighting was retrofitted with highly efficient, long-life components and select occupancy sensors were installed. As a result, the campuses will not have lamp costs for four years and ballast costs for five years. Complete exterior parking lot and driveway lighting retrofits to LED fixtures have been completed at Geauga and Ashtabula and several were retrofitted at Salem; those campuses should greatly benefit from a five-year warranty and expected 60K to 100K hours (13 to 22 years) service life. Select building envelope repairs, installation of select high velocity hand dryers, existing equipment retro-commissioning, overall exhaust demand controls, air handler outdoor air controls, vending machine optimization controls and other control strategies round out the balance of energy conservation measures for the overall utility cost and consumption reductions. View the Lighting Retrofit Measurement and Verification Summary.

Ashtabula Technology Building Rehabilitation
During the summer, the Ashtabula Technology Building was renovated and converted to house the Bookstore, the Business Department and the Facilities Maintenance Department. Interior spaces were completely renovated for these departments and the restoration of the exterior of the building involved installation of a new roof and insulation, new windows, masonry tuckpointing and a new entrance to the Bookstore. This project was completed this summer and the Bookstore, the Business Department, and the Facilities Maintenance Department were relocated and operational for the start of fall semester. (Architect: Payto Architects, Inc.; General Contractor: DSV Builders, Inc.; Roofing Contractor: A. W. Farrell & Son, Inc.)

Beall Hall Elevator Modernization
All of Beall Hall's elevator equipment was original to this residence hall, circa 1966. Elevator modernization for the two elevators included replacement of the electromagnetic controls with a micro-processor control system; it replaced the AC to DC generator set with a variable drive AC motor. Each elevator hoistway was re-roped and new elevator cabs were constructed on the slings. New lanterns and call stations were installed at each floor. Elevator dispatch times and travel times were shortened by the new efficiencies in the micro-processor controls taking advantage of updated technologies. (Consultant: Lerch Bates, Inc.; Elevator Contractor: ThyssenKrupp Elevator Corporation)

Bowman Hall Faculty Office Renovations
Partitions and finishes in Bowman Hall's faculty offices were original to the building, constructed in 1967, and were worn and beyond their useful life. Approximately 2,953 square feet of faculty office space on the south side of the first floor of Bowman Hall was renovated. (Architect: Four Points Architectural Services; Single Prime General Contractor: DSV Builders, Inc.)

Bowman, Henderson, and McGilvrey Halls Lecture Halls Improvements
Due to the extremely high volume usage of the lecture halls in Bowman Hall, Henderson Hall, and McGilvrey Hall, interior improvements were made this summer. Finishes and lighting were updated and additional electrical convenience outlets installed in Bowman Hall rooms 133 and 137. Finishes and lighting were updated in Henderson Hall room 201 and in McGilvrey Hall room 302. (Architect: David Ports Architect; Single Prime General Contractor: Stitle Construction Corporation)

Business Administration Building Lecture Hall 100 Renovation
Lecture Hall 100 in the Business Administration Building was renovated this summer. The layout of the aisles was revised, flooring was updated, the rooms were painted, new finishes and furniture were installed to match room 200 renovations. (Architect: FMD Architects; Single Prime General Contractor: Lauren Building Company)

Business Administration Building Restroom and Stair Renovations
Finishes and restrooms were original to the Business Administration Building and needed additional ADA upgrades. New finishes and fixtures for restrooms were provided in a one-for-one replacement. Flooring was updated and the stairwells were painted. (Architect: Van Auken Akins Architects, LLC; Single Prime General Contractor: The Cornice Co., Inc.)

DeWeese Health Center Entrance Canopies
A new canopy was built at the DeWeese Health Center to address functional and aesthetic concerns. Some associated building areas were renovated and a new entrance canopy was installed for Student Accessibility Services. Concurrent with the canopies project, a building evaluation was conducted highlighting existing systems and maintenance needs, as well as developed a master plan to guide the canopy project and to highlight future physical organizational and growth of the health center's functions. (Architect: Hasenstab Architects; General Contractor: Cavanaugh Building Corporation).

DeWeese Steam Line Insulation Replacement
At the main distribution steam line feeding DeWeese Health Center, Thermacore duct insulation was removed due to failure and Gilsulate 500 pipe insulation was installed as its replacement. The site was restored and concrete walks were replaced this summer. (Engineer: Scheeser Buckley Mayfield; Single Prime General Contractor: Cavanaugh Building Corporation)

Dix Stadium West Parking Lot Paving 2012
This summer the west parking lot at Dix Stadium was repaved to extend the lifespan of the lot and provide stable parking and walkway surfaces for students and stadium visitors. (Architect: Alber & Rice; Single Prime General Contractor: Perrin Asphalt Co., Inc.)

East Liverpool Classroom Building Fire Alarm Upgrade
This summer, the old fire alarm system in the Classroom Building at East Liverpool Campus was replaced with a new, addressable system with the latest technology along with voice capabilities. (Engineer: Epic Design Services Group; Electrical Contractor: B & J Electric of Poland, Inc.)

Field House Renewable Energy Project
The largest, roof-mounted solar photovoltaic (PV) panel electrical system within the University System of Ohio was completed this summer at the Field House, working with Third Sun Solar and Wind Power, Ltd. for KSU Field House 1, LLC, a solar power developer. Power production from the solar panels installed by Thompson Electric, Inc. officially began on July 20. Electricity from the solar panels is expected to provide about one-third of the electricity required for the combined Field House and Dix Stadium facilities; since the two facilities are electrically interconnected, each will benefit from the solar panel project. This project is the first in a prospective series of renewable energy projects involving solar panels to be installed on Kent Campus roofs and is expected to be used as a model for other Kent State systems, as well as for other state of Ohio public institutions. Preliminary data for August 2012 indicates that Dix Stadium/Field House used about 130,185 kWh - of which about 39% was solar power; 16,200 kWh of unused solar power was fed back into the Ohio Edison grid and will be credited on the university’s electric bill. (For comparisons: an average home in this region uses about 832 kWh per month). Read more about this project: Soaking Up the Sun: Kent State’s First Renewable Energy Project, Success Stories, May 21, 2012.

Geauga Classroom Building HVAC Replacement, Phase 1
This summer, phase 1 of the project to replace HVAC systems in Geauga’s Classroom Building was implemented to replace AC-2, the boiler heating plant, and the thermostatic fin-tube radiation zone control valves. Fume hood monitoring devices were installed, and then final start-up of the boiler plant and testing of the controls were conducted. (Engineer: Hinkel Engineering, Inc.; Single Prime Mechanical Contractor: Prout Boiler, Heating and Welding, Inc.)

Gym (MACC) Annex Rooms 221 and 222 Improvements
This summer, rooms 221 and 222 in the MACC Annex were improved and used as labs for the athletic training programs which have outgrown their existing laboratory space. A new HVAC system with air conditioning for both rooms was installed. Other improvements included painting and installation of new carpeting. (Engineer: Hinkel Engineering, Inc.; Single Prime General Contractor: Hummel Construction Company)

Kent State University Renewable Energy Master Plan
Gravity Renewables Group completed a comprehensive Renewable Energy Master Plan in effort to responsibly and efficiently apply appropriate renewable energy methods throughout Kent State University's campuses. Renewable energy deployment is the next logical step to Kent State's aggressive, energy conservation programs and sustainability initiatives. This comprehensive methodology demonstrates Kent State's stewardship of public funding, responsible cost containment for its students and environmental impact reduction. Curricular components are also being developed. A consulting firm is assisting the university with developing and refining objectives associated with implementing renewable energy solutions across its campuses. The consultant studied the eight campus sites, facilities and utility data and prepared the Master Plan. Phase 1 of the Master Plan was completed on May 5, and suggests projects as "Priority A†2011 and “Priority B†2012 and beyond. "Priority A†solar photovoltaic (PV) panel projects recommended at the Kent Campus involves the Field House, Student Recreation and Wellness Center, Memorial Athletic and Convocation Center and Schwartz Center, and at Stark and Trumbull campuses. A "Priority A†wind turbine project at Ashtabula Campus is suggested. All options for grants and financing are being investigated for maximum overall project success. The first project, solar PV electric panels on the Field House roof, was completed in summer 2012 and officially began providing power on July 20, 2012.

Library Restroom Renovations
This summer, restrooms on the first, third, fourth and fifth floors of the Library were renovated. New plumbing was installed in restrooms on the first floor of the Library to create a centralized core area. On the third floor, finishes and fixtures were updated. On the fourth and fifth floors, using additional space from the adjacent closet, the existing single restrooms were converted to separate men's and women's restrooms. (Architect: Van Auken Akins Architects, LLC; Single Prime General Contractor: DSV Builders, Inc.)

Memorial Athletic and Convocation Center Masonry and Window Restoration
At the Memorial Athletic and Convocation Center, masonry systems and windows were failing, permitting water to enter wall systems and the building interiors. The contractor repaired and tuckpointed the masonry; repaired and installed expansion joints; set and sealed misplaced coping stones; installed flashing, repaired lintels sealed masonry and stone; replaced glass block fenestration with new glazing systems; repaired the remaining windows; and repaired/replaced entry door hardware. When work commenced, further unforeseen deterioration was discovered, requiring many of the second floor windows’ steel lintels to be replaced. During the course of the project, tasks to improve entry lighting, accessibility ramps, stairs, and handrail repairs were added to the project scope. (Architect: Braun & Steidl Architects, Inc.; General Trades Contractor: Stitle Construction Corporation)

Murin Garden Lighting
Outdoor lighting in the Murin Gardens and adjacent areas were improved and upgraded with the new campus standard lighting system and new landscaping in the main boulevard. (Engineer: Epic Design Services Group; Single Prime Electrical Contractor: J. W. Didado Electric, Inc.)

Regional Academic Center at Twinsburg
Utilizing new and flexible bond provisions from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, the Summit County Port Authority (SCPA) issued Build America Bonds to finance the construction of Kent State University’s Regional Academic Center in Twinsburg. Through a development agreement with the SCPA, KSU Twinsburg LLC, a limited liability company controlled and managed by Fairmount Properties LLC and Premier Development Partners, built the 44,000 SF Academic Center on behalf of the port authority as agent and Kent State University as tenant of the port. The facility is located on SR 91 North near Interstate 480. With a 30-year triple net lease, the transaction structure provides attractive long term, fixed rate financing; and because of the Build America Bonds structure, a lower rate of interest, resulting in reduced lease payment amounts. Over the entire 30-year term, Kent State University’s lease payments will be a direct pass-through of bond principal, interest, and federal rebate with cost savings of $1,400,000. Construction was completed this summer and the building was occupied for use at the start of Fall Semester 2012.

Salem Classroom Building Lecture Hall Improvements
The lecture hall in Salem's Classroom Building was renovated this summer. Seating was replaced with modern tables and chairs and accommodates ADA accessibility. Asbestos containing tile and mastic were removed. New energy-efficient lighting and sprinklers were installed in the new ceiling. The room was prepared to receive modern audio-visual and teaching technology in the future. This project was completed this summer and was occupied for the start of the fall semester. (Single Prime General Contractor: Jim Santini Builder, Inc.)

Science Research Building Roof Replacement and Masonry Repairs
The Science Research Building’s exterior envelope was repaired and the main building roof system replaced. The project also included replacement of various exhaust equipment and lighting protection. (Architect: Chambers, Murphy & Burge Restoration Architects, Ltd.; General Contractor: Roth Bros., Inc.)

Stark Campus-Wide Energy Conservation Project
In June, The Brewer-Garrett Company completed the installation and retro-commissioning phase of this first Energy Conservation Performance Contracting project undertaken by Kent State (six major buildings totaling 340,000 SF). Central chiller plant optimization, along with some air handler component replacements and retro-commissioning affected every major building. Indoor fluorescent lighting retrofits to highly efficient, long-life components occurred at every building along with installation of occupancy sensors. Select building envelope repairs, installation of select high velocity hand dryers, existing equipment commissioning, overall exhaust demand controls, air handler outdoor air controls and vending machine optimization controls, along with other control strategies round out the balance of energy conservation measures for the overall utility cost and consumption reductions. The project is utilizing provisions under House Bill 7 for payback of project cost with guaranteed energy savings over a maximum 10-year time period. Low interest funding was acquired through the Ohio Air Quality Development Authority and tax exempt bonds were secured. Stark will surpass the 20% House Bill 251 energy use reduction goal by saving 37% in energy with 37% greenhouse gas emission reduction. Project construction installation cost was $1,344,000, resulting in approximately $180,000 total annual guaranteed utility cost savings. The energy auditing and verification phase of the project began after final acceptance of the installation phase and continues through the 10-year contract period. For the July 2011 utility billing, one year of utility data was available for measurement and verification purposes. After weather-related adjustments and calculations, the project is performing as expected with energy and cost reductions. During the installation period, Stark received over 29% savings on its electricity costs at the project contract rate (36% at the current electricity cost rate). By comparing current utility bills with those from last year, the effect of chiller optimizations should be apparent and should show significant energy savings; submittal of final reports from the energy service company are forthcoming.

Stark Fine Arts Building Ceiling Abatement
In the Stark Fine Arts Building, all asbestos-containing ceiling tiles were removed, ceiling grids cleaned and painted, and new ceiling tiles were installed, along with the re-installation of existing devices (speakers, lights, diffusers, etc.) into the new ceiling. (Consultant: EA Group; Single Prime General Contractor: Stitle Construction Corporation)

Stark Fine Arts Building Envelope Repairs
Repairs made to the Stark Fine Arts Building’s building envelope this summer included brick and stone masonry tuckpointing, stone coping repairs, replacement of sealant at doors and windows, concrete replacement at the loading dock, replacement of deteriorating doors and masonry cleaning and sealing on all facades. (Architect: Harris/Day Architects; Single Prime General Contractor: The M-A Building & Maintenance Co.)

Stark Fine Arts Building Fire Alarm Upgrade
The existing fire alarm system in the Fine Arts Building at Stark Campus was replaced with a new, addressable system with the latest technology along with voice capabilities to enable interfacing with the mass notification system. The new fire alarm was designed as a speaker/visual type system that is compatible with other equipment on-site to facilitate integration with the campuswide network. (Engineer: Peters, Tschantz & Associates, Inc.; Electrical Contractor: Hilscher-Clarke Electric Company)

Stark Main Hall First Floor Renovations for Student Services and IT
A portion of the Kent State University at Stark Main Hall first floor was renovated to enlarge Student Services into the area vacated by the External Affairs office. Renovations to accommodate Student Services, faculty offices and minor reconfigurations for Information Technology in the science wing included installation of new walls, doors and ceilings, and HVAC and electrical improvements. This project was completed this summer and was fully occupied for the start of the fall semester. (Architect: Payto Architects, Inc.; Single Prime General Contractor: Stitle Construction Corporation)

Stark Re-Paving of Parking Lots 100 and 103
At the Stark Campus, parking lots 100 and 103 were repaved in August. The project was completed this summer and the parking lots were in full use for the start of the fall semester. (Single Prime General Contractor: Central Allied Enterprises)

Student Center Envelope Restoration
The Student Center's exterior building envelope was repaired; work involves masonry repairs and restoration, cleaning and sealing; expansion joint replacement; window caulking; exterior plaster soffit and lighting replacement; waterproofing and paver repairs/replacement at exterior decks. (Architect: Carl Walker, Inc.; General Trades Contractor: Hively Contracting Company; Electrical Contractor: Speelman Electric, Inc.)

Summit Street Power Plant Cooling Towers Upgrades, Phase 2
Two new cooling towers, one tower water pump, one new primary and a secondary chilled water pump were installed in the Summit Street Power Plant. This project also provided new VFDs for each pump and for new cooling towers, new structural steel for towers, controls, balance system, cooling tower controls and programming. The addition of these new cooling towers addresses the necessary capacity issues currently associated with the plant and will allow for full operation of the facility. These modifications enabled the chilled water plant to save energy through operations and controls. (Engineer: Scheeser Buckley Mayfield, LLC; Mechanical Contractor: S. A. Comunale Co., Inc.; Electrical Contractor: M & M Electrical , Inc.)

The Student Green
This project extends the design of the Risman Plaza renovations to the lawn area south to create a contiguous outdoor space. The eastern portion of Risman Drive is closed and parking and traffic have been redirected to the new parking lot at the western end. Landscape improvements include installation of new sidewalks, trees, planting beds, campus gateway and signage along Summit Street. On-site work was completed by Homecoming 2012. Read more about this project: Work begins on Student Green project. (Architect: SmithGroup/JJR, LLC; Single Prime General Contractor: Cavanaugh Building Corporation)

Taylor Hall Renovations for the May 4th Visitors Center
A portion of the first floor of Taylor Hall was renovated to construct a visitors’ center to house exhibits regarding the events of May 4, 1970. The project entailed new installation of interior partitions, finishes, electrical, teledata, audio-visual systems, and heating, ventilating, and air conditioning improvements. The May 4th Visitors Center officially opened to the public during Homecoming weekend on October 20. (Architect: Wanix Architects, LLC: Engineer: Karpinski Engineering; General Trades Contractor: DSV Builders, Inc.; Mechanical Contractor: Kline & Kavali Mechanical Contractors, LLC; Electrical Contractor: J. W. Didado Electric, Inc.; Technology Contractor: Echo 24, Inc.)