18.08.10_PROJECT_PROGRAM.pdf

CATALINA AND EL PORTAL REVITALIZATION PROGRAM

EL YUNQUE NATIONAL FOREST

Forest Service

El Portal and Catalina

PROJECT PROGRAMMING

Draft submitted: June 4, 2018

Revised: June 29, 2018

Revised: July 27, 2018

Document Prepared by:

RMA Architects, PSC in collaboration with:

OLA, Office of Landscape Architecture

Alpha Corp.

Interface Engineering, Inc.

Mc Mullan and Associates

ECS Florida

US Rib Cost

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Table of Contents

1 PROJECT INTRODUCTION

1.1 Project Location and project background 7

1.2 Site Orientation 7

1.3 Work to Date 12

1.4 Project Programming document scope 12

2 PROJECT OVERVIEW

2.1 Project Goals 13

2.1.1 General objectives 13

2.1.2 Site Program Objective 13

2.1.3 Catalina Program Objective 13

2.1.4 El Portal Program Objective: 13

2.2 Delivery Methodology 14

3 EXISTING CONDITIONS

3.1 Site 15

3.1.1 Catalina Site 15

3.1.2 El Portal Site 15

3.2 Catalina Building 17

3.3 El Portal Building 20

3.4 Site Utilities 25

3.5 Available documents 25

3.6 Further Testing and results 25

4 OPPORTUNITIES AND PROPOSALS

4.1 Site 27

4.1.1 Catalina Site 27

4.1.2 El Portal Site 28

4.2 Catalina Architectural and Functional Description 29

4.3 El Portal Architectural and Functional Description 30

5 FUNCTIONAL AND SPACE PROGRAM

5.1 Space Requirement Tables for Catalina 35

5.2 Space Requirement Tables for El Portal 39

5.3 Space Types description and requirements 44

A. Deskbound workstations

B. Benching Workstation

C. Private Office

D. Shared Office

E. Focus Rooms

F. Medium Meeting Room 10 P

G. Small Meeting Room 6P

H. Small Meeting Room 6P – Non-Secure Area

I. Open Meeting Lounge 8P

J. Office Services

K. Pantry with Collaborative area

L. Pantry

M. Reception

N. IT Closet

O. Mail Area

P. IT Room

Q. High Density Storage Semi-conditioned

R. High Density Storage Fully Conditioned

S. General Storage

T. Natural and Cultural Resources

U. Fitness Room/Incident swing space

V. Wellness Room

W. Toilet Rooms

X. Showers

Y. Mud Area

Z. Multipurpose Room

AA. Portal Benching Workstations and Collaborative open space -

BB. Hospitality Wet Bar

CC. Art Room sink

DD. Parrot Storage

EE. Unconditioned Meeting Lounge

FF. Unconditioned Covered Exhibit Areas

GG. Store

HH. Orientation Booth

II. Theater

JJ. Terraces

KK. Café/Catering Pantry

6 TECHNICAL REQUIREMENTS

6.1 Codes, Standards and References 83

6.2 Code Analysis 83

6.2.1 Catalina 84

6.2.2 El Portal 87

6.2.3 Code evaluation recommendations: 96

6.3 Catalina improvement strategies per discipline 96

6.3.1 Building Envelope 96

6.3.2 Fire Protection Strategies 96

6.3.3 Mechanical Strategies 96

6.3.4 Electrical Strategies 97

6.3.5 Lighting Strategies 98

6.3.6 Security 98

6.3.7 IT General Requirements 99

6.4 El Portal improvement strategies per discipline 100

6.4.1 Site Electrical and Lighting 100

6.4.2 Building Envelope 101

6.4.3 Fire Protection Strategies 102

6.4.4 Mechanical Strategies 102

6.4.5 Electrical Strategies 103

6.4.6 Lighting Strategies 104

6.4.7 Security 104

6.4.8 IT General Requirements 104

7 GREEN BUILDING AND RESILIENCY REQUIREMENTS

7.1 General Sustainable Design Components 105

7.2 Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy Approaches 105

8 ADDITIONAL INFORMATION NEEDED

9 POSSIBLE FUTURE PHASES OR INTERVENTIONS

10 APPENDICES

10.1 Block Diagrams and Test Fits 107

10.2 LEED Checklists Commented 107

10.3 RELi Standards Lists 107

10.4 Cost Estimate 107

10.5 Staff Interviews 107

10.6 Topography and As Built Surveys 107

1 PROJECT INTRODUCTION

To be submitted by USFS

1.1 Project Location and project background

To be Submitted by USFS

1.2 Site Orientation

Existing Lower Catalina Plan. NTS.

Existing Upper Catalina Plan. NTS.

Existing Terrace Level El Portal Plan. NTS.

Existing Atrium Level El Portal Plan. NTS.

Existing Pavilion Level El Portal Plan. NTS.

1.3 Work to Date

The Forest Service sponsored a Design Charrette in 2018 during May 7 -11 to revisit previous developed concepts and integrate best practices and lessons learned. The charrette brought together Forest Service Southern Region Architectural and Engineering (A/E) staff along with the El Yunque National Forest Staff, International Institute of Tropical Forestry Staff, Fish and Wildlife Service staff, local community partners to the Forest Service such as, Girls Scouts of Caribe, Puerto Rico Tourism Company, Corredor Ecológico del Noreste, Luquillo LTER, CCPP, Eastern National, Fundación Alma de Bahía, El Centro para la Conservación del Paisaje, Fundación Amigos del Yunque, and RMA Architects, PSC A/E Team. In addition, as virtual attendees, the Forest Service Center for Design and Interpretation National Federation of Federal Employees also participated.

The current Task Order purpose is to define the project planning, functional and space programming through site research, data collection, validation and analysis to set the foundation for the development of bridging contract documents for the Renovation and Rehabilitation at the El Yunque National Forest’s (EYNF) El Portal de El Yunque Rain Forest Center and Catalina Headquarters Building. The tasks included:

• Planning and Design Charrette for the entire site.

• Examine existing conditions

• Document site constraints

• Interview Forest Leadership Staff

• Document functional, space and performance needs

• Provide the Forest Service with a list of additional information and investigation needed

• Investigate opportunities to increase infrastructure resiliency

• Determine third party green building rating system

• Provide cost estimate. Level of detail should range from enhanced square foot costs to assembly’s level for all work items.

1.4 Project Programming document scope

This document is the culmination of previous Engagement deliverables, and the documents used as a reference to develop this publication will permit that the appropriate criteria is incorporated into the revitalization of El Portal and Catalina buildings at El Yunque National Forest. The following project programming will aid USFS staff in the identification of appropriate alternatives for their workspace at these facilities.

The objective of the project program is to identify the current issues that needs to be solved and to outline the requirements of each space to permit their correct functionality.

2 PROJECT OVERVIEW

2.1 Project Goals

2.1.1 General objectives

• Separating public from secure and service areas to provide a secure environment for staff and an enhanced experience to visitors.

• Use high performance strategies to meet vision for sustainable, redundant and resilient system and reduce energy consumption.

• Renewable energy, photovoltaics, will be integrated into the backup energy system.

• Universal accessibility for the users.

• Enhanced indoor environmental quality using healthy materials, acoustics, daylight, and views.

• Repair and replace up to code standards.

2.1.2 Site Program Objective

• Site design will take advantage of its role as mediator between the forest and the interpretative spaces at El Portal to prepare visitors for their forest experience. Specifically, creating trail exhibits and activities adjacent to El Portal that provide for a greater connection to the forest.

• Improvements in the road network for better accessibility and connectivity. In particular, the staff route between El Portal and Catalina facilities.

• Concealment of service areas from view, new service courts and driveways to El Portal’s and Catalina’s service areas are to be provided.

• Redesign vehicle circulation, grading and pathways at Catalina parking lot.

2.1.3 Catalina Program Objective

An effective and productive work environment depends on a series of strategies related to people, place and technology. Program objectives, aligned with the actual operations at Catalina and the USFS and USDA design guides, have been identified to provide a new work environment at the Catalina facility. These objectives are:

• Provide choice in the work environment to support a variety of work styles.

• Provide the infrastructure for high quality, reliable and consistent IT infrastructure and work tools.

• Good environmental quality, healthy materials, comfort, daylight and view.

• Increase space efficiency by combining similar uses into categories. These are:

o Public areas; reception, meeting room and bathrooms o Secure staff areas that includes; support storage areas, office services (copy room, mail room, supply room, filing and storage), workspaces, meeting spaces, social hubs.

In addition,

• Catalina is considered the first responder facilities and should be fully operational in case of an incident

• Achieve separated public from secured staff area

• Incident swing space needs to be provided

2.1.4 El Portal Program Objective:

In August 2017 the USFS staff and leadership reviewed an updated interpretive and exhibit plan, which addressed several alternatives for developing a new strategy for exhibits and partnership relations at El Portal. In May 2018, through an inclusive charrette exercise, the El Yunque National Forest staff and community partners indicated a preference for Alternative No. 2 as presented in the August 2017 report. This option attempts to blend some interpretive exhibits that engage and stimulate visitors in the front gallery portion of the Atrium Level and then introduces community activities, booths, crafts demonstrations and other aspects of Puerto Rican life. This option also proposes a shared space to allow for the interpretative themes and other uses at Pavilion Level such as the Café, a Kid’s Play Zone, a place for special events and community meetings. This zone can also be used for rentals or loaned for free to partner groups.

For the Terrace Level (not addressed on the August 2017 report), the charrette participants indicated a preference for a flexible office area that enhances the ability of personnel and partners to successfully and effectively work together.

In addition, the following criteria shall be considered as objectives:

• Revive the Center with an atmosphere of collaboration such as El Portalito at Palmer

• Priority should be given to visitors’ experience

• Use Center for special meeting/activity/business/ social event not just daytime but also at night; 365 days a year

• New ‘selfie’ picture spots will be integrated throughout the building. Portions of existing parapet walls will be replaced with guardrails to enhance the picture spot view

• Open walls to connect the pavilions and the outdoor spaces

• Relocate Reception area as necessary to accommodate exhibits and visitors

• Make provisions for food service / catering.

• Upgrade theater

• New entrance to the store facing the central axis

• Redesign toilet rooms to increase number of fixtures and integrate family toilet rooms

• Include glass over trellis adjacent to toilet rooms and store to accommodate the queue and provide spaces of comfort.

• Enhance lighting, provide charging stations and provide water outlets

• Provide a wellness and first aid capabilities

• Provide storage space for events and activities

2.2 Delivery Methodology

The project process and timeline are based on two undergoing parallel efforts, the Interpretative Design and the Facility Design. The Interpretative Design is expected to achieve a 90% Design Development to set forth a Design Build Award for the exhibition construction and installation. On the other hand, the Facility Design is expected to achieve a Project Programming and Bridging Contract Document up to a 35% development to ensure that the design intents are conveyed in the project. From these documents a Design Build contract will be awarded to develop full construction documents, demolition and construction of the facilities.

Simultaneously, a previous Design Build contract will be awarded to remodel Catalina’s roof and lower level for temporary occupancy. An intermediate generator and rental mechanical ventilation systems shall be coordinated for Catalina’s occupancy of lower level during project construction.

All efforts target to a reopen date of the facilities on November 2019.

3 EXISTING CONDITIONS

Site visits, analysis of existing documentation and USFS staff consultations were made to identify the current challenges and problematics of site and building functions. Existing conditions that need to be addressed regarding site, architecture, structure, building envelope, mechanical and electrical are described below according to the information available at the moment. For this reason, further tests and analyses are being proposed.

3.1 Site

3.1.1 Catalina Site

• Connection from Catalina HQ. to El Portal - Forest Service personnel with functions that require direct contact with the public and the partners, need to work at both facilities. There is a safety and accessibility issue on the existing route used by the personnel between the two buildings.

In addition, this non-accessible route impacts employee’s mobility and functional efficiency. On the other hand, Catalina and El Portal maintenance equipment, materials and deliveries are independent from each other. If an equipment needs to be transported it will be through State Road 191.

• Separation of Public and Service areas - Visitors that bypass El Portal’s entrance stop at Catalina Headquarters to ask for information and to use the toilet rooms. Catalina Headquarters’ purpose is more aligned with a national forest facility and is not designed to accommodate high volume of visitors. The receptionist can have between 100 to 200 visitors daily during the high season. The existing site features are not successful in directing visitors to the El Portal Visitors Center and detracting visitors from entering Catalina.

• Catalina Headquarters Complex Vehicle Circulation - Catalina site has no physical segregation between public and private allowing visitors to wonder through the site on areas that are service oriented. In addition, Catalina has only one entrance to the site and requires vehicles to turn around to exit at the service yard resulting in a complex vehicular circulation. The pedestrian pathways are observed to be damaged by tree roots overgrowth.

• Stormwater management - The existing grading around the perimeter of the Catalina facility does not provide positive drainage away from the structure. A system of trench drains and small pipe systems have been added to mitigate the drainage deficiencies in the past, however they are ineffective. Storm water and trees roots have caused erosion and building settlement

3.1.2 El Portal Site

• Signage - El Portal Visitor’s Center is located off State Road 191 and by design is not visible from the main road. The signage wall at the Visitors center roadway entrance does not follow the characteristics of the typical Forest Service National Forest facility and is often missed by visitors. The reason may be that the perception of the entrance while driving can be misinterpreted for a private development (see also CHM Government Services report dated October 2014).

• Roadway at The El Portal Entrance Fee Station - Visitors entering El Portal site often delay traffic, while gathering information on El Yunque attractions and exhibits at the fee station. Due to the single access lane, mini-buses and employees, whose time is limited, are trapped in long lines during peak season. Peak season is from December to March, where approximately 26 tour buses of various sizes visit the facilities from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm, accounting for approximately

600 daily visitors. The USFS is currently looking at alternate methods to improve the visitors and traffic flow and facilitate fee collection.

• El Portal Service Drive - The existing service drive is a dead-end drive with no area for service vehicles to turn. In addition, the entrance to the service drive from the main roadway to El Portal has an abrupt turn in a slope that coincides with the location of the electrical substation, which has no protection. A safety issue is observed between the existing service drive layout and the generator’s location because is highly vulnerable to vehicle impact.

• Separation of Public and Service areas - There is no real separation between public areas and service areas resulting in a negative impact to the visitor’s experience and difficult logistics for the staff. For example, the current service areas (generator location, storages and others) are located by design on the east side of the exhibit pavilions, which is not adequate because it negatively impacts the view and visitor’s experience in the Cotorra Pavilion (East). Due to the lack of a quality forest experience, the Forest Service had to locate the café on the Coquí Pavilion (West) creating a difficulty in logistics of servicing the Café. In addition, there is no designated area for waste collection and employees must travel to State Road 191 to deposit the waste on Forest Service bins. These bins are frequently filled with waste not belonging to the Forest Service due to their exposed location.

• El Portal Parking Area - The lack of a paging system is a safety concern. Forest Service personnel are unable to communicate with visitors in such a large area, that includes surrounding trails.

Communication is essential at closing time of the facilities because automobiles are often seen in the parking lot, but visitors are not found. There is no system to support communications on a regular basis or in case of an emergency.

• Site Utilities- All outdoor lighting fixtures have been damaged during the hurricane. Current lighting controls do not meet latest code requirements. During the hurricane, a tree fell and damaged direct buried 13.2kV feeders that serve the switchgear for Catalina and El Portal causing power outage for months. A 13.2kV Utility Switch serves Catalina, El Portal, and parking lighting and is not protected from the physical damage.

• Other observations are:

o Activities are frequently held at the parking lot, including visitors in RV vehicles. There is no infrastructure to support needs, such as RV type connections and picnic areas.

o The quantity of accessible parking is sufficient, but the grades are not compliant with accessibility guidelines.

o Limited number of accessible routes throughout the site.

3.2 Catalina Building

The Catalina Building is an existing two-story office building with an area of roughly 5,160 square foot per floor (10,320 sf total). Currently, the upper floor of the building serves as the main administrative space for the Forest Service’s operation at El Yunque National Forest. The lower floor of the building also has some administrative space, but has been primarily used for storage, lockers rooms and wash rooms.

• Architecture – The functions at lower and upper Catalina are fragmented disrupting the ability of personnel and partners to work together. The support facilities such as storage has outlived the needs of the staff, and although there is enough square footage to shelter the required functions the layout impedes the effective optimization of the areas. Refer to Plan drawings at the end of this section for further details.

• Roof - The roof structures consist of concrete double T-sections on both construction phases of the building. The roofing system on the building consisted of clay tiles that were damaged during the hurricane. Observations of the double tees showed signs of water intrusion along the joints from the failed roof system.

• Structural - Some minor cracks were seen; some likely associated with building movement during the

Hurricane, and others to minor settlement of the building addition. These are not considered serious and do not require a structural repair.

• Mechanical - The condition of the existing mechanical system is quite poor (see Figure 1) and has not been operational since Hurricane Maria in 2017. The primary mechanical system servicing the upper floor of the building is a single direct expansion (DX) air handling unit, providing constant volume conditioned air to the private offices, conference room, reception area, open office space and corridors. Air is delivered to the space through ceiling-mounted air diffusers. Return air enters the ceiling plenum through return air grilles and is drawn back to the floors single mechanical room by placing the plenum under a negative pressure (see Figure 2).

• Fresh Air - The mechanical system does not have an outdoor air intake. Ventilation air is provided to the occupants via operable windows. An air-cooled condensing unit, located at grade outside the east wall of the building, allows for heat rejection from the air handling unit. (See Figure 3). A single thermostat located in the north corridor on the building controls temperature for the entire floor. Therefore, the space is designed to operate as a single comfort zone resulting in an inefficient system and uncomfortable for or users.

Figure 1 Figure 2 Figure 3

3.3 El Portal Building

• Architecture - There have been no significant changes, physically or programmatically since its opening in

1996. Most of El Portal’s elements are at or beyond their expected life. The type of space for the exhibits and even the building envelope might also have outlived their purpose; especially given the recent damage by Hurricane Maria to roofing, doors and windows. The architectural features and spaces need to be revitalized to match current expectations of use, codes, sustainability and resiliency standards that are part of current Federal Government public policies. Refer to plan drawings at the end of this section for further details.

• Building Envelope – o There are numerous areas where the smooth stucco plaster is delaminating and has visible cracks within the surface.

o Mold was observed in multiple office spaces including the Fish and Wildlife Service offices; typically, above ceilings and on gypsum/smooth plaster walls. Windows sealant has failed and is hard and brittle to the touch.

o The high roof area standing seam roof panels appear to be corroded in multiple locations. The flashing at the ridge points in areas have been pulled off or deformed by the high winds. These two elements are fundamental; and therefore, impeding the complete roof system to perform adequately.

o The roofs of the pavilion buildings drain to a lower concrete roof area that does not have an adequate drainage solution. Observations of the stucco from the higher roof to the lower channel areas revealed a 3-4-inch gap where the smooth stucco was not completed properly. In addition, the sloped roof areas of the pavilions were observed to have smooth stucco debris from construction.

Drains are clogged and very much in need of maintenance. Two roof sections were observed with 4 to 5 inches of standing water. Several roof drain covers were missing or damaged. It appears the concrete roof sections do not have adequate slope to drain properly. In addition, observations of cracks that have occurred in these concrete roof areas, run top to bottom and indicate some water intrusion. Concrete overhang slopes towards the interior, failing corner drain and perimeter concrete beams impede proper drainage. This unresolved issue has consistently failed during storms. Storm sewer drain lines need to be evaluated to verify proper functioning.

o The floor topping within the non-conditioned partially covered Atrium Level appears to have been removed and water is infiltrating into the conditioned office floor below. The floor has cracks and is not insulated resulting in substantial moisture intrusion to the conditioned floor below. In addition, the temperature differential between the non-conditioned partially covered flooring at Atrium Level is causing fluctuations in temperature from the conditioned office space below. It creates a concern regarding condensation and mold build up.

o The office spaces within El Portal, at Terrace Level have no insulation in the walls, which does not contribute to the current energy efficiency standards.

o The windows for the entire facility are single pane, regular glass (non-tempered) within timber frames.

o Currently the pools areas are allowing water intrusion into the building towards the projection room of the theater. There appears to be moisture intrusion through the concrete cast-in-place walls of the theater area and ponding was observed in the electrical room behind the projection room walls.

• Structural -o Minor hurricane damage due to winds was observed. It was not possible to do a close inspection of El Portal roof framing structure, to determine if welded connections are cracked from the high winds experienced during the Hurricane.

o More serious structural damage was observed due to corrosion and water damage. Figures 4 and 5 are included below for reference.

o A number of structural repairs will be needed at El Portal. The severity of damage to the steel members and welded connections at El Portal is difficult to determine, and repairs could vary from cleaning and grinding of corrosion, to removal and replacement of sections of framing. The metal structure connections appear to be breached and are causing points of moisture intrusion for the building.

o There is conflicting drawing information as to whether there are crawl spaces or fill soil beneath several locations at El Portal. Crawl spaces would require proper treatment and ventilation to avoid mold formation.

• Mechanical-o The mechanical systems are compromised after Hurricane Maria. The structure is largely unconditioned except for a few specific areas of the building. These areas include; the Retail Space and the Theater, located on the Atrium Level and the Terrace Level Administrative Space.

o All existing HVAC equipment was found to be in poor condition and has not been operational since the Hurricane. In addition to the water and humidity damage, it appears that mold has infiltrated throughout the ductwork and air handling systems (see Figure 6).

o All heat rejection, from the existing HVAC equipment, is currently handled by air-cooled condensing units located external to the building, in various locations. The condensing units serving the Theater and the IT Room are located under a ramp on the east side of the building. The condensing units serving the Retail Store and the Administrative space are located on an external terrace on the west side of the building (see Figure 7).

o Existing Toilet rooms are ventilated but not air conditioned, they are serviced by an exhaust air system with a fan mounted on the roof, directly about the Toilet Rooms on the Atrium Level.

Figure 5- Corrosion and Water Damage Figure 4- Typical damage at roof structure

Figure 6- Existing Air Handling Unit serving the Theater

Figure 7- Air Cooled Condensing Unit

3.4 Site Utilities

• Potable Water System - The Catalina compound and the El Portal facilities are both supplied from a water treatment plant located up in El Yunque National Forest managed by the USFS. The facility is currently in operation; however, the treated water is not potable. This system can produce 60,000 gallons per day. Water storage tanks maintain 50,000 per day for daily potable water use. 100,000 gallons are continuously stored in reserve for fire flow. The average daily consumption during normal usage is less than 10,000 gallons. The combined Potable/Fire water is conveyed with gravity piping to the compounds below. The gravity head provides ample pressure for the onsite systems. The onsite distribution system includes water service connections, as well as serving fire hydrants spaced across the sites. The current system has unidentified significant leaks.

• Sanitary Sewer System - El Portal has a single duplex lift station to send wastewater to the municipal sewer system. Although there does not appear to be a capacity issue, the lift station is lacking some maintenance repairs.

• Electrical Power Site Distribution - There is a direct buried ducted electrical distribution system serving both Catalina and El Portal as well as the parking area. The direct buried ducts have limited cover and are vulnerable to tree damage. This segment of primary service was damaged in the Hurricane. Another distribution manhole structure was damaged during the Hurricane and needs to be replaced or repaired.

• Telecommunication Site Distribution- There is an underground telecommunication distribution system connecting Catalina and El Portal. This infrastructure does not extend to the proposed El Portal IT hub.

There are currently a multitude of individual conduits mounted on the exterior of the facility that do not provide for the standard 4-way 4” ducted distribution for IT purposes.

3.5 Available documents

Existing record drawings do not constitute As-Built drawings of either one of the buildings. These incomplete drawings, various site visits and the Hurricane Assessment report prepared previously by RMA are the available tools for this project phase.

A topographic survey was performed recently to provide surface feature mapping, structure locations and as-built documentation of the facility grading. All surface features are located, including pavements, curbs, pedestrian walks, structures, utility surface features, signs, fences, pavement markings. Sub-surface utility mapping is not included with this survey.

3.6 Further Testing and results

Additional information is required to evaluate the existing conditions further. These are:

• A subsurface utility location survey to verify horizontal utility locations and pipe invert elevations should be recorded on all gravity systems.

• A leak survey needs to be conducted to determine the location of the existing leak in the water distribution system.

• NDT testing of steel tube members and welded connections to determine steel loss from corrosion and possible cracks at welds due to overstress from hurricane winds. Methods would include ultrasonic testing, magnetic particle testing, and close visual observation depending on the specific circumstances.

• Core test to determine construction of raised slabs at several locations at El Portal due to conflicting drawing information. It is necessary to determine if these are crawl spaces or are slab on grade. Crawl spaces would require proper treatment and ventilation to avoid mold formation.

• Several core tests to determine whether a topping exists in the Atrium Level of El Portal that can be removed. If the core tests reflect a lack of topping, any proposed work will have to evaluate the thickness required to achieve the necessary objectives - proper drainage, eliminate cracks, insulate and avoid moisture intrusion to the conditioned space below- and verify the impact it may have on adjacent areas, such as stairs and ramps.

• The floor topping within the Atrium Level arrival entrance area (high roof area) appears to have been removed for repair and water is infiltrating. NDT investigation is recommended by performing several cores throughout the structure to determine appropriate repairs and the existence of a waterproofing membrane.

• There are numerous areas where the smooth stucco plaster is delaminating and has visible cracks within the surface. An additional evaluation of the exterior plaster walls is required to verify what areas should be removed and replaced.

• Inspection of storm water lines embedded in concrete columns to determine if these can be reused and alterations needed to avoid water ponding in the concrete overhangs.

• Perform shade study to identify the most effective site for photovoltaics.

4 OPPORTUNITIES AND PROPOSALS

4.1 Site

4.1.1 Catalina Site

Included in the Appendices a Proposed Site Plan where the possible opportunities are indicated by numbers and further described in a narrative form below.

• [#1] Vehicle Circulation: Improvements to Catalina internal vehicle circulation to maintain information and public toilet rooms access, while separating public access to back of house operational functions. An access control measure will be necessary to separate the visitor parking area from back of house functions. It is important to maintain vehicular access by Forest Service to trailer area as well as vehicle access to the existing fueling facility. A new secondary entrance for staff and service needs to be provided for vehicular circulation and proper separation of public and service areas.

• [#2] New Connection from Catalina to El Portal- A new pedestrian connection is required for access between the facilities. This access will connect the Catalina back of house area to the El Portal entrance driveway.

• [#3] Catalina Perimeter Security Fence Repair. The existing perimeter security fence (a 6-foot chain link mesh with two-sided barbed wire extension arms) was substantially damaged during the hurricanes. It should be improved by selective component replacement and adjustment. Fence fabric and barb wire need to be tightened. New gates are needed.

• [#4] Catalina Drainage Improvements. The pavement along the back of the house should be lowered to provide the necessary water drainage away from the building’s Lower Level. The grading along the foundation walls should be adjusted to provide overland relief with a new properly sized storm water collection system. The pedestrian walks and handicapped parking spaces on the west side of the building should be completely replaced and re-graded. A low impact storm water management strategy should intercept and manage concentrated storm water discharges away from the Catalina complex.

• [#5] Catalina Pavement Improvements. Full section replacement of 40 percent of the existing pavement and milling and overlay of the remainder.

• [#6] Other Site Improvements at Catalina -o Three (3) incident trailers, o Hazmat storage building o Small equipment cleaning service pad with grease trap o New Convault 1000 gal refueling station with multiple layer containment o Rainwater harvesting for site non-potable use o Storm water and trees roots have caused erosion and building settlement. Improve grading, storm water management strategies are needed away from the building footprint.

o Exit stair to exit the outdoors, provide accessible routes and reduce water infiltration.

• Existing storage structures shall be demolished but the existing concrete pad will remain for miscellaneous outdoor uses such as woodworking or other shop duties.

At the redesigned parking areas in Catalina, including the proposed secondary entrance, a planting plan shall screen visible equipment with vegetation as practical.

4.1.2 El Portal Site

• [#7] Roadway Modifications at The El Portal Entrance Fee Station - The existing entrance road width shall be expanded to allow two incoming access lanes. This will allow a dedicated lane for guide service mini-buses separate from other incoming traffic by visitors.

The separation will free up queuing space and will reduce back-ups onto State Road 191 during peak usage periods and speed the guide services to their destination. This will also allow the booth attendant to service private vehicles without leaving the booth as it is currently configured.

• [#8] Accessible Trail - A new accessible trail should provide direct access between the trail running below the Boardwalk Bridge at the entrance area and the Pavilion Level of El Portal.

This path will also include a connection to the Terrace Level new exit egress path and provide an area of refuge. The switchbacks required to provide accessible running slopes will also provide opportunities for interpretive landscape exhibits. In addition, a more direct connection from the parking lot to the pavilions and activity area could be considered via a short boardwalk.

• [#9] El Portal new service Court and Drive - There is an existing flat graded area adjacent to the existing service road entrance. This area provides a protected location for the main switchgear in lieu of the current location. Locating the photovoltaic infrastructure at this service area would optimize efficiency, limit the extent of conduit and cable, and place the transfer switches where they should be. This area could also provide new location for waste bins, emergency generator and several power connection points for food service and event support vehicles. A new entrance could be connected from the existing service drive entrance to provide a looped vehicular circulation to the El Portal entrance drive. This mitigates the need for backing up and turning around in the constrained existing service drive. In addition, widening and reducing the existing running slope will also improve the existing service drive.

• [#10] El Portal Existing Service Drive Improvements – The relocation of the existing emergency generator (see above) and modifications to the water feature pump system equipment could free up needed back of house support space at El Portal and make better and more practical uses of this space such as storage. Access to this new storage space is proposed as a pedestrian and small vehicle access only. This new route needs to be located away from the Cotorra Pavilion to create a buffer zone to enhance the overall experience of the visitors.

• [#11] El Portal Parking Area Improvements- These include minor drainage improvements, correction of existing handicapped parking areas with accessibility deficiencies, and replacement of the existing parking lot lighting pole; new lighting poles should comply with Dark Sky full cutoff and should be energy efficient.

• [#12] General Drainage Improvements - In conjunction with drainage and grading improvements, implementation of Environmental Site Design (ESD) strategies to improve water quality and reduce erosion and sedimentation are necessary. Multiple smaller ESD measures provide point source treatment of drainage areas and minimize the need for larger downstream treatment facilities. These improvements could include a variety of bioretention facilities to provide qualitative and quantitative benefits. Storm Water Management improvements should be performed in accordance with Section 438 of the Energy Independence and Security Act. Stabilization measures are necessary to address concentrated storm water flows on steep slopes, including both channel stabilization measures and velocity dissipation measures such as check dams and plunge pools.

• [#13] Path Around Perimeter of El Portal Structure- Provide a new 6 foot wide gravel path around the perimeter of El Portal to provide maintenance access and prevent building damage from vegetation.

• Additional Improvements are:

o New paging system throughout the site for announcements to the public, or in case of an emergency.

o Locate potential areas for pollinator gardens for design and construction by others. The enhanced landscape provides for new outdoors exhibits of endemic flora for educational and community involvement purposes, such as flora that may attract butterflies, humming birds and similar fauna.

o Enhance the forest experience, with a sustainable and low impact storm-water management strategies and provide new trails, picnic areas and other activities adjacent around them. Design criteria is referenced to the Forest Service Trail Accessibility Guidelines (FSTAG)Select pavement materials and design grading changes that disturb existing conditions at a minimum. This includes preliminary alignment and grading changes for minimal disturbances to existing conditions in coordination with the topographic survey plan at the proposed paths and trails, as well as a secure and more direct pedestrian and golf cart access for Forest Service staff between the two facilities.

At the new service court and other new site features, a planting plan needs to be incorporated to screen visible equipment with vegetation as practical.

4.2 Catalina Architectural and Functional Description

• Lower Level

The new space layout proposed for Catalina Lower Level considers suggestions from USFS to locate all Forest Service support and storage needs at this level. All existing support areas at the Lower Level are combined into three fully conditioned high-density storages for optimal space usage; one for general office and field needs (Central Compaction), and two smaller storages for sensitive equipment and law enforcement evidence. In addition, a semi conditioned area for more storage and a wood workshop. The existing toilets and locker facilities shall be replaced with a more comfortable and effective area for toilets, showers and wellness room. Lockers are relocated to the main corridor for better access. Mud area shall be provided near entrance to contain particulates from entering the clean interior areas.

A natural and cultural resources work room will provide clean, conditioned, and secure space for processing artifacts and specimens.

A fitness room is proposed towards the north, to serve as “swing space” in case an office area is needed for Incident Command Center and additional staff/volunteers during future emergencies.

The existing kitchen is reconfigured and expanded to provide an alternate social hub from the new but smaller pantry area at the Upper Level. The existing open terrace (now Unconditioned Café) is kept as currently used for receptions or lunches offered to partners or visitors coming in for a meeting.

Finally, the existing exterior stair enclosure will be modified as a conditioned space. A new exit discharge at grade needs to be provided to correct the current condition, where the discharge is not code compliant. Grading needs to be redefined for these purposes. In addition, a complete new stair layout and elevator area shall be included in future construction phases. The elevator’s Basis of Design shall be Kone EcoSpace Traction Elevator with central accessible opening and machine room.

• Upper Level

The new space layout proposed for Upper Level Catalina considers the suggestions from USFS to locate all Forest Service office space, including space for Fish and Wildlife Service, at this level. There is also a need for a clear separation between public and secured staff areas. Public areas will include a reception area with 4-6 chairs, an adjacent mail/storage room, dedicated unisex restrooms, and a six

(6) person capacity meeting room.

Secured staff area will include, a meeting room with a maximum capacity of 10 people, and new collaborative and comfortable copy and collating area that could be combined with either work tables or storage needs. Storage needs in Upper Catalina will also be provided by means of dense filing storage units. In the work areas, there should be ample natural daylight and a mix of collaboration and focus areas to support a wider choice of work styles. The USFS National Workplace Design Guidelines and the USDA Space and Design Guide are to be followed in respect to the space types, sizes and requirements.

There are several strategies proposed for achieving these goals. The most dramatic is the removal of the acoustical ceiling to allow the full height exposure of the existing structure. This allows for new lighting, mechanical and architectural strategies that provide a more attractive and inviting work area.

Acoustics will be managed by providing suspended systems such as baffles or clouds, acoustical panels on walls, carpet only at work station areas to maximize sound absorption and finally a sound masking system could be included if necessary. An open ceiling strategy also minimizes confined areas that are susceptible to maintenance issues such as mold growth.

A pantry shall be centrally located and appropriately sized as per USDA Space Guidelines.

4.3 El Portal Architectural and Functional Description

Through an inclusive charrette exercise, the El Yunque National Forest staff and community partners indicated a preference for Alternative No. 2 as presented in the El Portal Visitor Center Space Draft Exhibit Concepts - 50% Draft of August 2017. This option attempts to blend some interpretive exhibits with community activities, booths, crafts demonstrations and other aspects of Puerto Rican life. This option also proposes sharing the pavilions between the interpretative themes and other uses like the Café, a Kid’s Play Zone and a place for special events, meetings and community gatherings. The Conexión Pavilion at the south will also be used for rentals or loaned for free to partner groups. For the Terrace Level (not addressed on the August 2017 report), the charrette participants indicated a preference for a flexible office area that enhances the ability of personnel and partners to successfully and effectively work together.

• Terrace Level For this level, project shall provide office space for partners and “touch-down” stations for Forest

Service staff to service the community. The space should include a 60+ seat multiuse room for seminars and community gatherings following the lead established by “El Portalito” at Palmer; a rented facility in the early aftermath of Hurricane Maria, which provided for personnel and partners to effectively work together.

The new meeting space is proposed at the central area enclosed by fully operable walls and furnished with flexible seating, modular tables, mobile whiteboards and high-quality IT infrastructure. To the sides, new open office areas for “touch-down stations” for Public Service staff to meet with partners and visitors following the USDA Space and Design Guidelines. An art sink and wet bar that can be separately concealed, a medium meeting room and two focus rooms are also requested as support spaces.

Storage for printed material, T-shirts and brochures shall be provided within modular furniture. The existing terrace needs to remain accessible from the central meeting space and from the rest of the interior spaces. Low modular furniture shall be provided to ensure exterior views.

The remainder of the space at Terrace Level will provide support to the occupant with toilet rooms, wellness room, offices for contractors with dedicated showers and storage areas. There is also another support space by the existing elevator and stairs. The elevator is not compliant with accessibility requirements such as an intercommunication device in case of distress and its hydraulic system spills oil and fluids to the soil. A complete elevator is being proposed. The Basis of Design for the elevator shall be Kone Ecospace Traction Elevator with central opening and machine room. The existing stairwell is also non-compliant with Code in width, tread/riser ratio and handrail extensions. Minor modifications to the handrails are being proposed but the location between shear walls do not allow its width and tread/riser dimensions be modified. For Code purposes this stair is not considered a means of egress.

New means of egress are proposed from Terrace Level directly to the outdoor on both, the east and west, portions of the floor. Due to the topography, the new accessible 48” wide corridor will lead towards the rescue areas not less than ten feet away from the building and compliant with the 2018 IBC Section 1009.7 (see Code Section of this report). A “pinch point” encroaching on the minimum width will require further analysis of existing conditions to ensure the minimum width is provided.

These new means of egress may also allow access to a possible outdoor exhibit area and trails with enhanced landscaping (see Site Section under Opportunities).

The live parrot exhibition at the Atrium Level will be serviced from the Terrace Level. The parrot room provides for attendants to store feeding material and water as well as provide regular assistance or maintenance to the parrots. This space can also serve as refuge during emergencies such as hurricane conditions or other natural phenomena and will need to be served by batteries to operate 24/7 ventilation and monitoring during any incident.

To complete the existing space, rooms are provided for Janitorial, Mechanical, Electrical and IT Room.

• Atrium Level The entrance boardwalk bridge constitutes the existing single point of entry and means of egress.

Although additional means of egress are required, this boardwalk shall be remodeled to provide a wider access in between the guardrails and more durable walking surface. (Refer to guardrail requirements on the Code section of the report.)

A place for photo opportunity is created at the immediate entry point by partially removing the concrete parapets at this area and replacing them with transparent railing. Further along the arrival area, the feature of the new Puerto Rican parrot’s exhibit is located. The exhibition will include interpretative and decorative features that will maintain the cage out of reach from the visitors.

Moving along the central axis of the Atrium Level, the store and the toilet facilities are considered for renovation. The existing store will have a new entrance added directly from the main central axis.

The new toilet rooms layouts are proposed within the exiting footprint to increase fixture count and add family toilet rooms to provide for families with needs beyond accessibility such as parents with small children of a different sex. The plumbing fixture count is described on the Code section of this report.

A system of pergolas defines a holding area in front of the store and the toilet facilities. A skylight over these open pergolas is proposed to provide the needed protected comfort zones. The translucent material with decorative painting, to hide the vegetative material deposited on it, will provide weather protection to staff, visitors and partners in this area. Removal of concrete built in benches with furniture type benches may allow for a larger comfort zone and should be analyzed.

A new means of egress from the comfort zone next to the store is proposed to meet means of egress requirements and travel distances. This new exit stair will connect to the interpretative trails near the Terrace Level rescue area on the west wing. The additional means of egress is proposed to service both the Atrium Level and the Pavilion Level, and connects at the ramp landing and leads to the service path.

The theater located on the south end of the main axis is to be fully reformed with new fixed seating, finishes and the newest technology for an ultimate audiovisual experience.