Story

Originally built in 1964, the Radiation Physics Building, also known as Building 245, hosts research vital to our nation's healthcare, environmental monitoring, radiation protection and industrial processing. The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) modernization contract consists of eight task orders. Hensel Phelps was awarded the contract based on its winning approach to Task Order 1, an addition dubbed the H Wing. This completion of the addition was vital to providing swing space as the team moved into later phases of the project. Throughout Task Order 1 construction, Hensel Phelps took great care to minimize disruptions to ongoing research. The H Wing aligns with the existing Building 245, therefore, the addition uses a mat foundation that reduces the possibility of differential settlement. The structural configuration of the addition consists of a robust concrete frame, offering enhanced floor loading and vibration mitigation. The superstructure meets a baseline vibration criteria velocity of 2,000 micro-inches per second. The addition also includes 2,500 SF of Class 100 cleanroom space. The Task Order 2 scope includes the design and construction of the D Wing addition totaling $25.6 million. This addition includes a precast facade built around a new concrete structure that includes a new plumbing room, mechanical room, laboratory space, and cleanroom that connects to an existing laboratory. Due to the laboratory operations occurring adjacent to the construction of D Wing, extensive coordination and communication were required to allow the ongoing science to operate within the laboratory and ensure the safety and welfare of the construction personnel due to the radioactive sources that were being used at different times. Task Order 3 consisted of the design and construction solution to replace the existing A Wing electrical service room within A100 along with the associated transformer yard. This also included providing a new main and emergency electrical room. Task Order 4 includes the IT systems for H Wing totaling $828,000. The IT systems include data and communications like wireless access and new fiber throughout. Task Order 5 included security systems for the H Wing addition. Task Order 6 completed a full renovation of existing. The spaces included radioactive labs, administrative spaces, open offices and a mechanical penthouse. The scope also consisted of abatement, demolition and interior and exterior upgrades to the C-Wing of Building 245. The above-grade, three-story penthouse section of C-Wing was fully demolished and converted to three stories of open office concept space for the researchers. In addition, the exterior façade of the C-Wing was upgraded to comply with energy standards. Task Order 7 included replacing the roof of the adjacent E-wing. Task Order 8 included the renovation of the remaining lab space and sub-grade waterproofing repair at the basement and sub-basement levels, each of which has a unique geometry and configuration. Hensel Phelps’ work at the NIST campus allowed researchers to continue serving diverse business, agriculture, and security interests while incorporating upcoming technologies.