UofA - Steward Observatory

Pueblo Mechanical | Tucson, Arizona

Bringing an Observatory Up to Code

In 2016, after several additions were made to the original Steward Observatory Building at the University of Arizona, elevated levels of harmful airborne contaminants were detected. To address the age of the building complex, we retrofitted new HVAC, plumbing, electrical, and architectural building systems to extend the useful life of these facilities.

The 5-story, 120,000-square-foot building was fully occupied while using surge space and working alongside all building decision makers.

Solutions

  • Improving safety and efficiency by making significant repairs, rebuilds, and replacements to various mechanical, architectural, and electrical infrastructure elements.
  • Planning and implementing architectural repairs that involved roof reconstructions to provide waterproofing, window and door sealing, ADA upgrades, and more.
  • Handling mechanical repairs that included 4 new custom air handling units / 107 single duct VAVs / new chilled and steam piping from tunnels / new DDC control tied into BAS / new ductwork on floors 1-5 / new electrical panels
  • New heating water system included: 1 new shell and tube heat exchanger / 2 new heating hot water pumps / 1 new air/dirt separator
  • Replacing and upgrading electrical systems: new 1200A panel / new sub panels / new exit lights

Business Outcomes

Energy Efficiency and Operation – By retrofitting and making upgrades we improved energy efficiency without disrupting building operations, lowering costs.

Innovative Design-Build Approach – Utilizing a unique-to-us design-build process allowed us to optimize the coordination and seamless integration of mechanical, architectural, and electrical upgrades.

Compliance and Modernization – The observatory building complex was elevated to modern code standards, enhancing safety and accessibility, including ADA compliance, while maintaining historical integrity.

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