Award of Merit: Government/Public Buildings
The design-build team constructing this New Britain police station had just 30 months to complete the 91,300-sq-ft structure, including six months of early design time. The $36.2-million project includes street-level retail space and a redesigned parking garage with separate areas for patrol and visitor vehicles.
Before the design-builder took bids or selected materials for the project, it prequalified subcontractors and suppliers in terms of service, price, schedule and quality of work. During the bidding process, it discussed constructibility, schedule and possible project challenges. Taking these measures before the first shovel hit the ground "was invaluable as it ensured the quality and maintenance of the project schedule," according to the project submitter's entry form.
The facility also serves as a police academy to regional departments and includes a lecture room, library, physical combat training room, a dual-function pistol range and a forensics lab. The energy-efficient building features a white reflective membrane roof, a green vegetative roof, large windows and solar shading.
Best Project judges said that designing retail space for the community in a police station was innovative. "This project brought to life needed space," said one judge.
The project was completed under budget, saving the city more than $679,000.
New Britain Police Station, New Britain, Conn.
Key Players
Owner City of New Britain
Design builder Downes Construction Co. LLC
Lead Designer Kaestle Boos Architects Inc.
MEP Engineer Consulting Engineering Services
Geotech Engineer Haley & Aldric
Civil Engineer Maguire Group
