VA 852-042 - JBNC Phase 1 - Design Narrative.pdf

Jefferson Barracks National Cemetery

St. Louis, MO

Sylvan Springs Development on New Land

PROJECT 852-042

Design Narrative, 18 November 2024

PREPARED BY:

LEAD DESIGN CONSULTANT/ LANDSCAPE ARCHITECT

John Gallup & Associates, LLC (JG&A)

3225 Shallowford Road NE, Suite 830 Marietta, GA 30062

CEMETERY PLANNER

WSP USA.

1075 Big Shanty Road, Suite 100 Kennesaw, GA 30144

ARCHITECTURE

Davy Architecture

1053 10th Avenue, San Diego, CA 92101

CIVIL/ STRUCTURAL ENGINEER

Atriax PLLC

102 3rd Avenue NE, Hickory, NC 28601

ELECTRICAL /MECHANICAL/STRUCTURAL ENGINEER

Larson Design Group

3000 Westinghouse Drive, Cranberry Township, PA 16066

IRRIGATION DESIGNER

Aqua Engineering, Inc.

3944 JFK Parkway, Unit 12C, Fort Collins, CO 80525

Jefferson Barracks National Cemetery Sylvan Springs Development on New Land Project No.852-042 Bid Documents 8 October 2025

Design Narrative

DESIGN DEVELOPMENT NARRATIVE

I. Introduction

II. Environmental and Historical Preservation

A. Separate Studies

III. Civil

A. Existing Site Conditions

B. Demolition of Existing Buildings and Structures

C. New Site Work

D. Topography, Drainage and Grading

E. Existing Utilities

F. Sediment and Erosion Control

G. Environmental Permits

H. Landscaping

I. Roadway Design

IV. Geotechnical

A. Geotechnical Report

B. Soils

V. Architectural

A. Introduction

B. Guidance – Codes and Requirements

C. Building Envelope

D. Proposed Satellite Maintenance Building

E. Proposed Satellite Maintenance Storge Shed

F. Gravesite Locator

G. Administration / Public Information Center (PIC)

H. Committal Service Shelter

I. Interior Finishes

J. Sustainable Design

K. Storm Water Drainage Systems

Design Narrative

L. Fire Department Access

VI. Site Design

A. Signage

B. Finishes and Colors

VII. Site Structural

A. Framing Systems

B. Foundation Systems

VIII. Mechanical Systems

A. HVAC Systems

B. HVAC Design Criteria

IX. Plumbing

A. Codes

B. Standards

C. Basis of Design Features

X. Electrical Systems

A. Electrical

B. Telecommunications

XI. Irrigation

A. Basis of Design of Sylvan Springs Irrigation System

B. Basis of Design for Sections 1HH, 1IIA, and 1IIB

XII. Code Analysis

Design Narrative

I. INTRODUCTION

The National Cemetery Administration (NCA) contracted this 33.6-acre cemetery expansion project to increase burial capacity of Jefferson Barracks National Cemetery (JBNC) to serve veterans in the St.

Louis area. This cemetery expansion project identified on new land. The proposed development will provide continued service to an estimated Fiscal Year (FY) 2024 veteran population of approximately 208,000 within a 75-mile service area. This proposed development will provide an additional 15 years of continued burial service to a veteran population who has been served by this national cemetery since 1827. Without this project, NCA is projecting gravesite depletion of casketed pre-placed crypt gravesites by December 2031, in-ground cremation gravesites by December 2028, and columbarium niche inurnment sites by February 2033.

Since the most recent major construction CARES Phase 5 Gravesite Development project will develop the last portions of available land at the cemetery, NCA has completed the purchase of an adjacent 37.6-acre park for cemetery gravesite expansion. This project will provide for an additional 15-year inventory of the more efficient casketed, double-depth, pre-placed crypts before depletion of the current inventory, and extend the full range of burial options until FY 2044, as well as provide several nominal cemetery operational and infrastructure improvements within the older cemetery grounds.

This JBNC Sylvan Springs Development on new land design is guided by the objectives listed below.

• Construct new main entrance, new maintenance entrance from Sheridan Road and new roadway circulation system that conforms to NCA and St. Louis County standards.

• Provide minimum quantities of interment types as follows but maximize the total amount of gravesites within the identified expansion site.

- 14,000 Pre-Placed Burial Crypts (PPC)

- 9,500 In-Ground Cremains Burial Sites (IGC)

- 1,800 Oversized PPC Burial Sites

- 6,000 Columbarium Niches (on Main Cemetery)

- 300 Memorial Wall Plaques (on Main Cemetery)

• Provide recommendations for Early Turn Over (ETO) sections for this project.

• Construct nominal permanent Gravesite Locator (Kiosk) facility on Sylvan Springs site.

• Construct a new climate-controlled Satellite Maintenance and Equipment Storage Complex, with material storage yard and security fencing.

• Demolish existing Committal Service Shelter (CSS) #4 with new structure similar in design as existing CSS #7.

• Correct electrical deficiencies in Maintenance Buildings 3001, 3002 and 3003, in accordance with the latest Facility Condition Assessment (FCA) Report.

• Connect a new lawn irrigation system to serve the crypt fields in this overall expansion area to the existing irrigation system.

• Provide new lawn irrigation system to sections 1-IIA, 1-IIB, and 1HH in the Main Cemetery.

Design Narrative

• Provide flower watering stations, including vase and trash receptacles, watering spigot and information on floral policy. Utilize standard Veterans Administration details, matching existing site furnishings of the Main Cemetery.

• Provide new signage that matches recent cemetery improvements.

• Integrate project into the Cemetery Graphic Information System (GIS).

• Provide accessibility to physically disabled persons in compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act-1990 (ADA), Architectural Barriers Act of 1968 (ABA), as amended, and all other applicable policies governing barrier-free access.

• Strive to develop a grading plan that balances cut and fill operations and minimizes off-site soil transport.

• Promote landscape design to conserve scarce water resources yet deliver an acceptable and attractive living landscape memorial to the veterans interred there.

• Design all planting in accordance with the cemetery general scheme and match existing, where feasible, and utilize water-wise principles.

• Provide new irrigation circuits, as necessary, to all new planting areas in providing adequate water to promote healthy plant life.

II. ENVIRONMENTAL AND HISTORICAL PRESERVATION

A. Separate Studies

A separate study is currently in progress to establish guidelines for compliance with the National Environmental Policy Act and Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act. The findings of this study will be incorporated into the final design for Sylvan Springs.

III. CIVIL

A. Existing Site Conditions

Cemetery Setting and Surrounding Area JBNC is in St. Louis County, Missouri, approximately 10 miles south of the City of St. Louis, home of the Jefferson National Expansion Memorial commonly referred to as “The Arch.” The cemetery is surrounded by commercial development to the north and west, the eastern boundary is defined by the Mississippi River, and the VAMC adjoins the JBNC property to the south.

The main portion of JBNC is comprised of 339-acres characterized by rolling terrain and mature oak trees. As of August 2018, JBNC has a total of more than 188,000 interments. The cemetery accommodates cremated or casketed remains of eligible veterans and dependents. The cemetery averages approximately 20 interments per day.

JBNC is one of the oldest National Cemeteries managed by the NCA. It occupies a portion of the original military post that was built to replace Fort Bellefontaine and was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1998.

A portion of the existing cemetery property abuts Interstate 255, which is a major circumferential route around the metropolitan St. Louis area. Primary access to the cemetery is from Telegraph Road to the west, which is a major north-south arterial roadway for the area.

Design Narrative

Project Site The Sylvan Springs parcel, spanning 37.6 acres, previously represented approximately half the total acreage of Sylvan Springs Park. In 1826 it served as the original location where four companies of the First US Infantry established Jefferson Barracks as a military installation. While permanent development took place east of the site, the Sylvan Springs parcel remained largely undeveloped, serving as park space and recreational amenities.

Today the parcel remains mostly undeveloped, featuring mature forested areas and a few structures dating back to the period of Federal Government ownership between 1939 and 1950, when the land was transferred to St. Louis County.

Access & Circulation Vehicular access to the cemetery primarily occurs from the west via Sheridan Road, which intersects Telegraph Road approximately 500 feet west of the cemetery property. Telegraph Road intersects Interstate 255 around 3,000 feet south of Sheridan Road. The main entrance to JBNC is located off Sheridan Road on the east side of the cemetery. Sheridan Road continues east from the cemetery entrance, serving a small residential area, the Jefferson Barracks Army Reserve Center, and the Missouri Army and Air National Guard Base. Access from the east is restricted by the presence of the Mississippi River, while access from the south is limited by the Jefferson Barracks VA Medical Center (VAMC).

The Sylvan Springs parcel is currently bordered by Sheridan Road to the south, with Boundary Road on the west. Halsey Street forms the northern boundary of the expansion site, serving a county park and residential area. The eastern side of the property is bounded by single-family residential areas.

B. Demolition of Existing Buildings and Structures

The Sylvan Springs project site contains several structures, pavement areas, and large mature trees that are scheduled to be demolished as part of the site development. Site will essentially be cleared of all existing vegetation and structures.

To complete demolition and some work as part of this project, some demolition and utility work will be required on the adjacent Sylvan Springs Park property owned by St. Louis County. This work includes completing the demolition of existing parking lot driveways, install of a new stormwater area inlet and associated pipe to divert runoff from the park to the new stormwater network, and install of new curb and gutter. Coordinate all work that encroaches on County property with the VA and appropriate authorities.

C. New Site Work

The Sylvan Springs development areas include sections for standard pre-placed crypts, oversized pre-placed crypts, traditional size burial sites, and in-ground cremains sites, Satellite Maintenance Complex, Gravesite Locator Kiosk structure, roadways, landscaping, drainage, irrigation, and site furnishings.

New Gravesites A total of 36,511 gravesites are proposed in this phase of the development, including 18,533 Standard PPC burial sites (Size 3’ x 8’), 2,123 Traditional burial sites (4’x8’ to accommodate private vaults), 10,855 IGC burial Sites (4’x 4’) and 5,000 columbarium niches.

Development of Sylvan Springs site will include the following:

Design Narrative

Standard PPC burial sites are located in Section 201 (928 burial sites); Section 202 (1006 burial sites), Section 203 (1,016 burial sites) Section 204 (944 burial sites) Section 205 (1,816 burial sites), Section 206 (1,856 burial Sites), Section 210 (2,206 burial sites), Section 212 (1,648 burial sites), Section 213 (2,812 burial sites), Section 214 (1,505 burial sites), Section 215 (1,530 burial sites) and Section 217 (1,266 Burial sites). Crypt sections face inward towards the closest roadway.

Traditional burial sites are in Section 209. The section contains 2,124 burial sites, which face downhill to the west.

IGC burial sites are in Sections 207 (1,707 burial sites), 208 (1,600 burial sites), 208A (261 burial sites), 211 (2,424 burial sites), 216 (1,578 burial sites), 218 (1,321 burial sites) and 219 (1,964 burial sites) Crypt sections face inward towards the closest roadway.

Columbarium Niches will be constructed on the main cemetery. 5,000 niches will be constructed to complete a 10,000 niche Columbarium Plaza at the corner of Miravalle and Gentry Drives. 5,000 niches or half the plaza was completed by the Corps of Engineers in 2020. The columbarium design utilizes the same configuration of precast niche panels 5 niches high x 5 niches wide. Pilasters will be faced with field stone and limestone veneer with Indiana limestone cap stones. Lettering will be incised into the stone. Construction detailing and materials will match that found in Columbarium D. During the design process it was discovered that the layout for Columbarium E proposed by the USACE sited the last wall of niches directly over an existing stormwater drainage pipe. To keep the niches away from any underground pipe, the entire plaza was moved approximately 25’ to the north which will necessitate the removal or relocation of the existing segmental concrete block planter and 5 Little Leaf Linden trees.

D. Topography, Drainage and Grading

The parcel exhibits elevations ranging from an average height of 520 feet above mean sea level (AMSL) along the eastern and western edges, with the site elevation dipping to a low of 470 feet AMSL in the central portion. The eastern edge of the parcel consists of a relatively flat plateau approximately 170 feet wide. Overall, the site gently slopes from north to south.

E. Existing Utilities

Existing local utilities within the Sylvan Springs expansion area will be removed upon the completion of the multi-phase VAMC realignment. A brief assessment of utility systems is provided below:

Electricity and Communications Electrical service to the project site comes from an electrical substation located on VAMC property outside the JBNC expansion area. Approximately 1,875 linear feet of overhead power lines will need to be relocated in coordination with the utility company. This work will also require the utility company to relocate active electrical service lines and poles.

There is a major fiber optic line along the eastern edge of the gravesite expansion project limits, which serves the entire VAMC. The existing fiber line is within the limits of disturbance of the project and will need to be located to ensure there are no conflicts with the proposed work. Existing fiber handholes will need to be located and deconflicted with proposed work and finished grade. Otherwise, they shall be protected during all phases of construction.

Approximately 1,700 LF of new underground electrical service will need to be installed along Sheridan Rd. in to serve the maintenance building on the Sylvan Springs property. This will require the contractor to coordinate install of new electrical service with the utility company. New electrical

Design Narrative transformer pads and or handholes will also need to be installed by the contractor. New underground electrical service lines will require the contractor to install conduit as approved by the utility company.

Utility will install service line in contractor installed conduit. Where electrical line passes under road, directionally boring may be the preferred solution.

Sanitary Sewer/ Water An existing 8" VCP sanitary sewer line crosses under Boundary Road, extending southeast towards the center of the site. It then changes to a 10" VCP line for 495 linear feet. Approximately 430 linear feet of the upstream portion of the 8" VCP line will remain, while the remaining 1,185 linear feet will be demolished, and 2,562 linear feet of new public MSD sewer will be installed under proposed internal roadways. Sanitary sewer pipe sizing has been coordinated with MSD, who requested upsizing of pipe at west of property to a 12” PVC. An additional 375 feet of new sanitary sewer will branch off eastward to serve the proposed maintenance facility. Around 1,450 linear feet of existing underground potable water lines will be removed.

Existing sanitary sewer easements crossing the site will be relocated and realigned based on the location of the new public sanitary sewer pipes and structures installed. All new easements will be 10 feet wide, minimum, as required by St. Louis Metropolitan Sewer District, and recorded.

An approximately 140 LF of 8” public water main extension installed by the contractor will be required to connect to the existing 8” Missouri American Water pipe at the intersection of Sheridan Rd and Boundary Rd. The extension crosses a Phillips 66 utility easement. There are 4 pipelines in the easement area but only 2 are active. Construction of the extension under Boundary Rd. must be coordinated with Phillips 66 for install of the extension must be coordinated with both the water company and Philipps 66, with the contractor required to get approval for work in the pipeline’s easement, and all work as installed from both Missouri American Water and Phillips 66. The water main extension will go under the pipelines and will be sleeved

After Boundary Rd. is crossed, a 6” tee on the from the main at the property line will and 2 vaults will be installed for the new water meters.

From the 8” meter vault, approximately 1,763 linear feet of new 8” water line will connect to the existing line along the south side of the property and run east to serve the Sylvan Springs irrigation system.

From the 6” meter vault, approximately 1,750 linear feet of new 6” water line will connect to the existing line along the eastern side of the property and run west to serve the maintenance facility. A proposed fire hydrant will also be installed adjacent to the new maintenance building.

Two existing sanitary sewer lines with easement run through the site that will need to be demolished and relocated as part of this project. Connection locations for proposed sanitary sewer and storm drain will require approval from the St. Louis County Metropolitan Sewer District (MSD). A conceptual plan has been submitted to St. Louis County MSD for review and comments.

The Metropolitan Sewer District as part of a separate rehabilitation project is currently working on a study to upsize the sanitary sewer pipes across to be demolished/relocated as part of this project.

Coordinate with MSD on the results of their study, and the desired/approved size of the new sanitary sewer pipes that will need to be installed. This is a separate municipal project where some support may be provided to complete the work to meet the long-term construction and planning goals of MSD.

Design Narrative

Stormwater The Sylvan Springs expansion area conveys stormwater through three underground pipe networks, covering a watershed area of approximately 196 acres. These networks primarily extend from the north and west, draining south at the low point of Sheridan Road. An existing 60" RCP pipe (1,210 feet) starts along Boundary Road and heads southeast to the center of the site, then flows south to Sheridan Road.

This portion, with a drainage area of around 133 acres, will remain. Two existing 36" RCP networks begin along Halsey Road and flow south towards Sheridan Road, where all three networks converge into an existing precast storm chamber that directs the combined flows under Sheridan Road via a 5'x 10" concrete box culvert. These two 36" RCP networks (2,040 feet) have a combined drainage area of approximately 63 acres and will be relocated under proposed internal driveways, reconnecting at the existing precast chamber. A formal plan review will be provided to St. Louis County MSD for stormwater considerations. C

Construction stormwater runoff will need to be permitted through the St. Louis County MSD Phase II Program, which has water quality requirements based on the disturbed area and peak runoff. Compliance with water quantity reduction required by the EPA and St. Louis County Best Management Practices (BMPs) will be achieved using twelve bioretention basins. Plan review fees for St. Louis County MSD are waived since the site is on federal property.

In order to meet the required Post-Construction Water Quality (WQv) treatment regulations specified by the St. Louis Metropolitan Sewer District for stormwater runoff on the site, ten (10), 4-foot-diameter Hydrodynamic Separator units (Downstream Defender) are to be installed on the property in coordination with MSD and the Manufacturer to ensure the units are installed at the correct depths and that flows directed to the unit are able to meet water quality requirements for the property. All Hydrodynamic Separators are to be installed in the offline configuration. This requires the install of an upstream control structure (manhole) with a weir and a downstream outfall structure (manhole) for discharged and overflow from the control structure can be conveyed to the MSD stormwater network.

Inflows into the Hydrodynamic Separators will be controlled by ten (10) upstream stormwater manholes with an integrated concrete weir to meet divert the required water quality treatment volume to the separator units.

All work with the Hydrodynamic Separators and the associated manholes (weir and outfall) will need to be coordinated with MSD and the Manufacturer of the approved separator units. The selected Downstream Defender is manufactured by Hydro International and is on the list of approved devices issued by MSD for use as a water quality only device. The hydrodynamic separators will be installed in specially made manholes to be purchased from Hydro International. The upstream weir control structure (manhole) will need a weir installed to the height specified in the engineered Stormwater Report approved by MSD for construction.

F. Sediment and Erosion Control

Sediment and Erosion Control measures are provided in the design drawings. Proposed measures include inlet protection, perimeter silt fence, construction entrance, concrete washout, temporary seeding and sediment basins. A total of five (5) sediment basins have been designed for the 2-year, 24-hour rainfall event. The general contractor will be responsible for modifying the erosion control BMPs as construction progresses and the site changes. Notes are provided on the drawings covering the sequence of construction, maintenance of BMPs, and stabilization timelines.

Design Narrative

A site-specific Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan (SWPPP) will need to be prepared and maintained by the general contractor. The contractor is responsible for acquiring the SWPPP and any other erosion and sediment control permits required to complete the project.

G. Environmental Permits

Federal EPA Notice of Intent (NOI) and SWPPP This project is not located within EPA permitting jurisdiction. This has been delegated to Missouri Department of Natural Resources (DNR).

State Missouri DNR Land Disturbance

The General Contractor will be responsible for preparing Missouri DNR Form E – Application for General Permit. This form will not be submitted until an SWPPP has been developed for the site. The General Contractor will be responsible for preparing the SWPPP based on the design documents. The General Contractor will be responsible for keeping the SWPPP onsite and updating the SWPPP as construction processes and the site changes. This permit is required due to the disturbance of more than one-acre of land.

Federal EPA Notice of Intent (NOI) and SWPPP This project is not located within EPA permitting jurisdiction. This has been delegated to Missouri Department of Natural Resources (DNR).

State Missouri DNR Land Disturbance The General Contractor will be responsible for preparing Missouri DNR Form E – Application for General Permit. This form will not be submitted until an SWPPP has been developed for the site. The General Contractor will be responsible for preparing the SWPPP based on the design documents. The General Contractor will be responsible for keeping the SWPPP onsite and updating the SWPPP as construction processes and the site changes. This permit is required due to the disturbance of more than one-acre of land.

Local St. Louis County -Metropolitan St. Louis Sewer District (MSD)

Plans and specifications for connecting to the existing sewer lines within the cemetery shall be submitted to MSD for review and approval.

Water quality BMPs for stormwater runoff will be in accordance with applicable current Federal regulations as administered by MSD. A maintenance agreement will be required for all BMP structures.

Missouri American Water All required permits and testing will occur to prior to tapping into the Missouri American Water system.

A backflow preventer will be installed as required.

Design Narrative

St. Louis County Land Disturbance Permit Land Disturbance will be permitted through Missouri DNR. St. Louis County does not have jurisdiction for Land Disturbance.

H. Landscaping

New landscaping will consist of plants native to Missouri and all planting areas will be mulched with composted hardwood bark mulch. Tree plantings will be planted in a random naturalized pattern to match the plantings in the existing burial fields of the main cemetery. Species will consist of, Red Maple, Green Mountain Sugar Maple, Shadblow Serviceberry, Tulip Tree, Sweet Bay Magnolia, Scarlet Oak, Red Oak, Black Tupelo and Eastern White Pine. Plantings will also be randomly placed in and among burial spaces. Juniper hedges proposed to run along the fence line and perimeter are being used throughout the site for screening various site elements including the aluminum fencing, wire fencing, and retaining wall. A total of twelve (12) flower watering stations are provided on the Sylvan Springs expansion site and two (2) additional flower watering stations provided at Columbarium E.

I. Roadway Design

Roads to be constructed on the site will provide access to the new burial sections. The road is designed based on the VA National Cemetery Administration Design & Construction Criteria for roadways. All new curbing installed is designed to be mountable curbs. The roadway widths and minimum radiuses are based on the specifications for secondary roads (two-way). To meet this standard, the design speeds for all roads is 15 MPH. New roads are designed to be 24-feet wide from back-to-back of curb.

The width of asphalt road lanes will each be 10-feet wide, or 20-feet as a whole.

Approximately 5,550 LF of new 24-foot-wide asphalt roadways will be constructed as part of this project. Additional asphalt visitor pull-offs and sidewalk will also be required. All asphalt roads in the cemetery property shall have concrete curbs and gutter.

Two turn lanes are to be either added or extended along Sheridan Road to provide access to Sylvan Springs and to improve access at the Main entrance of Jefferson Barracks. This totals approximately 1,100 LF of new, 11-foot-wide asphalt roadways to be constructed along Sheridan Road.

Approximately 2,400 LF, 24-foot-wide asphalt roadway at Sheridan Road will be milled and replaced as part of this project. The road itself is under the jurisdiction of St. Louis County Department of Transportation. All work, including mill and replace standards, road closures, detours, and traffic control plans will need to be coordinated with the County, and are the responsibility of the contractor to provide.

The contractor is responsible for procuring all permits required by the County to complete the widening, mill and replace, marking and striping as shown or directed by the County to complete the project. The contractor is responsible for developing and submitting for approval any traffic control plans required as part of this project should they be deemed necessary. Contractor is responsible for coordinating all closures, detours, and other interruptions to cemetery access with the VA.

Another 200 LF, 12-foot-wide gravel access road is also to be constructed to provide maintenance access on the Sylvan Springs property.

Design Narrative

IV. GEOTECHNICAL

A. Geotechnical Report

A geotechnical report dated 3 September 2021 was prepared for the Sylvan Springs site by Terracon Consultants, Inc. of St. Louis.

B. Soils

According to the Terracon Report, geology was based on the 2007 Geological Map of Missouri provided by the Missouri Department of Natural Resources, the subject site is located over the Mississippian, Meramecian Series bedrock unit. The Mississippian, Meramecian Series bedrock consists primarily of limestone with little to no minor rock units. Solution features such as sinkholes, are commonly present in the Mississippian, Meramecian Series bedrock unit in this area. Known, mapped sinkholes are shown in the geotechnical report. It is difficult to predict future sinkhole activity.

Site grading and drainage may alter site conditions and could possibly cause sinkholes in areas that have no history of this activity.

The soil cover over the undulating limestone bedrock surface is highly variable and consists of four main types:

• Surface Material consisting of topsoil and gravel.

• Fill Material consisting of existing clay fill with varying amounts of silt, sand, and gravel.

• Clay Material consisting of lean (CL) and fat (CH) clay soils with varying amounts of silt and sand.

• Rock Material consisting of weathered limestone bedrock.

It was noted that the depth to weathered limestone bedrock was encountered at depths between 9- 1/2 and 14-1/2 feet below existing grades. The report noted that shallower bedrock may be encountered in areas not explored during sample drilling.

Design Narrative

V. ARCHITECTURAL /SITE DESIGN

A. Introduction

The architectural portion of work for the JBNC, Sylvan Springs Development includes the following:

• Permanent gravesite locator (Kiosk) structure.

• Satellite equipment storage building with employees break area (10 FTE) and restrooms.

• Refresh finishes in the Administration building.

• Minor electrical upgrades at the existing Maintenance Complex.

• Replace existing Committal Shelter 4 to match Committal Shelter 7.

See Project Manual, Section 09 06 00 Schedule of Finishes, for additional information.

Specifications added to project that are not included in the NCA master specifications are:

• Section 08 62 23, Tubular Skylights B. Guidance - Codes and Requirements

• Statement of Work o VA Program Guide PG-18-3, Topic 1 – Codes, Standards and Executive Orders (SEP

2013) NFPA 101 Life Safety Code (2024) International Building Code (ICC IBC-2018) Architectural Barriers Act Accessibility Standards (PG-18-13) Occupational, Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) Standards o VA Program Guide PG 18-3, Topic 4 – Foundation Drainage (APR 2001) o VA Program Guide PG 18-3, Topic 15 – Energy Efficient and Sustainable Design Policy for VA New Construction (MAY 2006)

• Not listed in the VA TIL NCA o VA Program Guide PG 18-3, Topic 16 – Sustainable Building Policy for VA

Renovation and New Construction (MAY 2006)

• Not listed in the VA TIL NCA o VA Program Guide PG 18-15 Volume D (DEC 2011) NCA Facilities Design Guide, Section 5 Design Criteria (NOV 2016)

• Not listed in the VA TIL NCA o 2016 Federal Energy Management Program (FEMP) Guiding Principles Checklist o Handbook H-18-8, Seismic Design Requirements (OCT 2016) o VA Signage Design Guide, Chapter 12, National Cemetery Signs (DEC 2012)

Design Narrative

C. Building Envelope

The fundamental purpose of the building enclosure is to separate the interior environment from the exterior environment, and this is done by controlling water, air, vapor, thermal, and pests.

Water

• The drainage plan is the component or material that prevents further penetration of water into the assembly and safely manages water flow. At sloped roof; underlayment and water-resistant membrane. Metal wall panels and wainscot veneer to include overlapping seams, and metal flashing.

• Diversion flashing: kick-out and step-out flashing at roof-wall interface, cap flashing above window, roof edging with a drip leg, saddle flashing over a joist or other structural element that penetrates a wall. Openings and penetrations will be protected with water diverting flashing.

• Capillary break: a non-water porous, water impervious material placed between two capillary active (water wicking) materials will be used to prevent the capillary transfer (wicking) of water to moisture sensitive material. Foam gasket, bituminous membrane or sheet metal placed between concrete and metal framing, 10 mil polyethylene sheet placed between the concrete slab and the ground, damp-proofing as required.

• Foundations use the slope of the adjacent grade to diver surface water away from the foundation.

• Metal and wainscot veneer will be used for durability and water control.

• Standing seam metal roof is the primary rain shedding layer over roof underlayment (#30 building felt) to serve as the drainage plane.

Air

• Air control is about keeping the inside air from mixing with outside air. To control the condition (temperature and humidity) the building it will be achieved by connection air tight materials to form a continuous, unbroken 3-dimensional wrap around the building interior.

Compartmentalization will be used for air control between various interior spaces.

• Performance targets are discussed in the mechanical section of this report.

Vapor

• Vapor control is about preventing condensation within walls, roof assemblies, carpets, the back of cabinets or wherever moisture can cause problems in the building. Vapor retarders Class I: 0.1 perm or less; Class II: 0.1-1.0 perm; Class III: greater than 1.0 perm and less than 10 perm.

• The foundation will include 10 mil polyethylene sheet placed between the concrete slab and the ground. Vapor semi-impermeable material include, building felts, OSB. Vapor semi-permeable materials include plywood, gypsum wallboard with latex paint.

Thermal

• Maximizing thermal control will allow for heating loads to be met with smaller equipment.

Design Narrative

• Design will incorporate strategies to reduce conductive heat gain called thermal bridging.

• ASHRE 90.1 Version 2022, Table 5.5-4, Building Envelope Requirement Climate Zone 4 (A, B, C) o For opaque building concrete masonry unit enclosure components and assemblies, R-

9.5. continuous insulation. Wall below grade R-7.5 continuous insulation Slab R 15 for 24 in. horizontal o Roof assemblies continuous R-30 continuous insulation above metal deck roof.

o For windows and glazing the radiant transfer of heat value is U-0.28. Solar heat gain coefficient equal or greater than 0.32 with air leakage less than 0.30. Achieved with Low-E coatings, gas fills, and insulating spacers.

D. Proposed Satellite Maintenance Building

The Satellite Maintenance Complex will be located north of Sheridan Road near a service entrance.

The proposed buildings will meet the current and future mission of the Cemetery.

• Proposed Site – Asphalt paving to compound entry, roadway weather grate, concrete hardstand, 6-ft high vinyl coated perimeter fence with manual sliding gate (keyed with integrated lock). Exterior lighting is located on the building.

Construction for the Maintenance Building will consist of shallow foundations, concrete slab, custom engineered metal building with an envelope constructed of CMU with stone veneer at the base and metal paneling above head level for exterior finishes. The roof will be a sloped standing seam. Aluminum framed window(s) with insulated glazing. Metal gutters and downspouts.

The building will be constructed of durable, non-combustible materials to match the existing construction type and rating required in this climate zone.

• Facility for storage of equipment, maintenance material, and break area for burial service staff of 5-10 PN.

• Concrete slab, custom engineered metal building, CMU wall enclosure, metal wall panels and dry-stacked natural stone veneer. Standing seam metal roof.

• Vehicle storage 44’x66’; 40’x40’ bay, (2) 12’x14’ sectional doors, suspended natural gas radiant tube heater(s) on controlled timers, warehouse lighting, and open to structure.

• Breakroom - vestibule, breakroom, kitchenette - case work to accommodate a single sink with filtered water, garbage disposal, space for microwave, coffee mess, and full-size refrigerator. Condition space with mini-split system. Ceiling open to structure with pendant lighting.

• Provide (2) unisex restrooms, ceramic tile, and hard lid ceiling.

• Functions: Staff restrooms, vestibule area, break room, kitchenette, 2-bay maintenance vehicle garage storage, and electrical/mechanical room.

Design Narrative

• Building Code Review:

o Applicable code: NFPA 101-2024 o Occupancy Classification o Group S - Storage o Group B – Business

• Height and Area Limitations o Maximum allowable height: 3-story (55- FT) o Actual height: 1-story (approximately 24 FT) o Maximum allowable area: 33,000 - gross SF o Actual area: 2,780 GSF

• Type of Construction: Type II, Unprotected Non-Combustible building elements are any material permitted by code.

• Fire-resistance rating requirements for building elements:

o Automatic fire sprinkler system: Not provided.

o Fire alarm: Provided

• Means of Egress o Maximum floor area allowance per occupant Required: Business areas, 50 SF/Occupant gross Required: Storage areas, 300 SF/Occupant gross Actual: 545 SF / 50 SF + 1,655 SF / 300 SF =17 Occupants (proposed) o Maximum travel distance allowed: 100 - FT o Capacity of egress components Egress width per occupant Doors required: 0.2-inches x 17 Occupants = 3.4-inches Doors provided: Minimum 36” width x 84” height o Number of Exits

One means of egress: Group B, less than 50 Occupants.

One means of egress: Group S, less than 50 Occupants.

E. Proposed Satellite Maintenance Storage Shed

Construction for the Maintenance Storage Shed will consist of shallow foundations, metal roof, metal roof structure, and 12” thick concrete push walls at the storage bays. The roof will be metal decking with metal siding to partially protect material from wind and other elements of nature. Metal gutters and chain downspouts will be provided.

The building will be constructed of durable, non-combustible materials, capable of taking on of the loads stored materials.

• Three bay covered material storage. Dirt, rock, and sand covered storage shelter with push wall,44’Wx36’D, each bay 14’x18’. Custom engineered metal building with cast-in-place or push wall (10’ high). Framing for roof anchored on top of wall. Standing seam metal roof.

Design Narrative

• Functions: Storage of rock, sand, and soil.

• Located: North of Sheridan Road and east of the Maintenance Building.

• Building Code Review:

o Applicable code: International Building Code 2021) o Occupancy Classification Group S-2 - Storage

• Height and Area Limitations o Maximum allowable height:3 -story (55 ft) o Actual height: 1-story (approximately 22 ft) o Maximum allowable area:33,000 - gross SF o Actual area: 1,350 GSF

• Type of Construction: Type III, building elements are any material permitted by code.

• Fire-resistance rating requirements for building elements:

• Automatic fire sprinkler system: Not Provided o Fire alarm: Not provided

F. Gravesite Locator Shelter

The Gravesite Locator Shelter will be located north of Sheridan Road north of the satellite storage area. The proposed buildings will meet the current and future mission of the Cemetery. A new shelter of 390 gross square feet (GSF).

Construction for this shelter will consist of shallow foundations, concrete slab, and with an envelope constructed of CMU with stone veneer, brick siding and metal paneling for exterior finishes. The roof will be a sloped standing seam steel framed roof supported by steel stub columns sitting on top of CMU perimeter walls. Metal gutters and downspouts.

The building will be constructed of durable, non-combustible materials to match the existing construction type and rating required in this climate zone.

• Functions: Gravesite Locator Kiosk, machine room, and electrical/mechanical yard.

• Located: North of Sheridan Road north of satellite storage area.

• Building Code Review:

o Applicable code: NFPA 101-2024 o Occupancy Classification Group A - Assembly

• Height and Area Limitations o Maximum allowable height:3 -story (55- ft) o Actual height: 1-story (approximately 15 ft) o Maximum allowable area:33,000 - gross SF o Actual area: 390 GSF

• Type of Construction: Type III, building elements are any material permitted by code.

• Fire-resistance rating requirements for building elements:

• Automatic fire sprinkler system: Not provided o Fire alarm: Not provided.

• Means of Egress o Maximum floor area allowance per occupant

Design Narrative

Required: Assembly areas, 15 SF/Occupant gross Actual: 197 SF / 15 SF =14 Occupants (proposed) o Maximum travel distance allowed:100 feet o Capacity of egress components Not applicable, no doors or access to structure.

G. Administration Building/Public Information Center (PIC)

• Refresh Building – repaint interior and replace existing carpet.

• Upgrade HVAC System.

H. Committal Service Shelter

• Demolish Committal Service Shelter (CSS) #4 and replace it at the same location with design similar to existing CSS#7.

• The new shelter will have a standing seam metal roof, open air pavilion structure with six reinforced concrete stone veneered columns.

• The metal gutter downspouts will be concealed in the four corner columns.

• Pavilion with a covered area (approximately 1,030 square feet) with fixed bench seating for approximately 32 people and an overflow of 30 additional chairs. The paved area will permit additional standing room overflow for people to gather at the cemetery and for an Honor Guard of approximately three to seven members to stand adjacent to the shelter.

• Enclosed storage closet (approximately 65 square feet) is provided to store one rolling bier, chairs, wall mounted shelf for sound system, and a duplex outlet.

I. Interior Finish

Interior wall and ceiling finish materials shall be Class A or Class B.

J. Sustainable Design

The facilities and all site feature requirements will consider US Green Building Council (USGBC) LEED guidelines as much as possible. The RFP does not require the contractor to register the project off-line with the USGBC / Green Building Certification Institute (GBCI). The strategies and features of this project will help reduce daily operations costs and negative environmental impacts through high-performance, market-leading design, construction, and operations practices.

The plumbing fixtures inside the building will be selected to reduce potable water use.

The contractor will be required to reduce construction waste by recycling a minimum of 50% of all construction and demolition waste associated with the project. They will also be required to develop and implement an Indoor Air Quality plan during construction to minimize contaminants entering the administrative building envelope.

Building materials and systems will be specified to ensure at least 20% of the building materials are made from recycled materials and are harvested and manufactured within 500 miles of this project.

The wood-based products will be from Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) certified sources.

K. Storm Water Drainage Systems

• Where roof gutters are provided and the system will be designed to drain by gravity. The storm drainage system will be designed for a 100-year, 1-hour duration storm event equal to 4” per hour.

• Discharge shall follow current storm water pollution prevention control requirements.

Design Narrative

L. Fire Department Access

Fire department access roads will be provided as required for each facility in accordance with NFPA 101 and the NCA turning radii requirements. Access road spacing to the exterior of buildings for non-sprinklered buildings will be provided such that an access road terminates no farther than 33 ft from a building entrance and such that all parts of the exterior of the building are within 150 ft of the access road.

VI. SITE DESIGN

A. Signage

Directional/Informational signage will be NCA-standard non-illuminated post and panel type. Posts will be metal Square posts. Panel color will be Matthews Paint #MP07458 Cast Bronze and Lettering font will be optima bold and be surface applied white vinyl type letters.

B. Finishes and Colors

Concrete Sidewalks:

• Natural color concrete with broom finish surface.

Curbing:

• Natural color concrete with broom finish surface.

Site Furnishings:

• Bench Color – Victor Stanley Black

• Flower Vase Receptacle Color – VS Black

• Trash Receptacle Color – VS Black

• Wire Fence – Black Polyester Powder Coat. Color: Black

• Section Markers – Granite

VII. STRUCTURAL

A. Framing Systems

• Maintenance Building:

o Custom metal building with columns at perimeter only. One portal frame will be utilized in both the North and South walls. The exterior walls will be constructed of CMU with stone veneer.

• Storage shed (three bay covered material storage):

o Roof consists of metal roof deck supported by steel framed roof structure and perimeter columns. 12” thick concrete push walls encompass the storage stalls and building footprint, and will support perimeter roof columns. The concrete walls will have square concrete pilasters under the steel support columns for the roof.

• Gravesite Locator:

o Roof consists of a monosloped steel framed roof supported by steel stub columns sitting on top of concrete perimeter walls. The exterior walls will have stone or brick veneer.

Design Narrative

B. Foundation Systems

• Maintenance Building:

o The foundation system will consist of shallow foundations. Spread footings will be used to support column loads and turned-down slabs will be provided along all exterior walls.

o Slabs on grade will be jointed at foundation walls and column piers to allow differential movement of these elements.

o 6” Concrete slabs will be provided at maintenance areas and 4” concrete slabs will be provided at electrical/break areas.

o Storage shed:

o The foundation system will consist of shallow concrete foundations at the retained concrete push walls, and a turned-down slab edge will be provided along the open side of storage.

o 10” thick Concrete slabs will be provided at entire floor slab o Gravesite Locator:

o The foundation system will consist of shallow concrete foundations under

CMU/concrete bearing walls and turned-down slabs will be provided along all exterior slabs.

o 4” Concrete slabs will be provided at shelter slab.

• Committal Shelter #4, foundations only:

o The foundation system will consist of shallow foundations. Spread footings will be used to support column/pier loads and turned-down slabs will be provided along all exterior of slab.

• Columbarium and Memorial wall, foundations only:

o The foundation system will consist of shallow, strip concrete foundations under the columbarium and memorial wall features.

VIII. MECHANICAL SYSTEMS

A. HVAC Systems

• The HVAC system is selected based on local design criteria with zoning and equipment types as proposed.

• Codes o Building Code: International Building Code, 2015 Edition o Energy Code: International Energy Code, 2015 Edition o Mechanical Code: International Mechanical Code, 2015 Edition

• Standards o ASHRAE Standard 55 – Thermal Comfort Conditions for Human Occupancy o ASHRAE Standard 62.1 – Ventilation for Acceptable Indoor Air Quality o ASHRAE Standard 90.1– Energy Standard for Buildings

Design Narrative

B. HVAC Design Criteria

• Indoor design:

o Conditioned Spaces: Cooling 78°F, 50%RH, Heating 68°F, 30%RH o Heated Only Spaces: Heating 60°F, 30%RH o Environmental Conditions: Summer 98°F/75°F (DB/WB), Winter 2°F (DB) o Lighting Load: As per design o People (based on Mechanical Code):

Office: 5 per 1000 square feet (S.F.)

Breakroom/Conference: 50 per 1000 S.F.

o Plug Loads (2017 ASHRAE Fundamentals):

Computers: 82 W ea.

TVs: 100 W ea.

Copier/Printer: 425 W ea.

Refrigerator: 400 W ea.

• Basis of Design Systems for Heating/Cooling and Ventilation:

o Maintenance Building:

Load calculations were performed for conditioned spaces with HAP v5.11. Due to the limited space the building orientation was fixed prior to any energy modeling.

In addition to the fixed orientation the lack of diversity in space usage limits available energy conservation metrics that would otherwise be possible in an office or other similar commercial building. As such envelope constructions are recommended to align with ASHRAE 90.1. Cost effective HVAC equipment is limited to ducted heat pump systems with supplemental electric heat.

The shop area ventilation shall be met through and interlocked fan/louver with heat sufficient to maintain a space temperature of 60°F. The basis of design shall be electric unit heaters unless natural gas or propane becomes available.

o Gravesite Locator:

The space has sufficient openable area to be considered naturally ventilated and shall be conditioned with a single zone VRF system.

• Controls:

o A complete building automation system will be provided, incorporating control of office/locker HVAC systems, shop heating and ventilation equipment.

IX. PLUMBING

A. Codes

• Building Code: International Building Code, 2015 Edition

• Energy Code: International Energy Code, 2015 Edition

• Plumbing Code: International Plumbing Code, 2015 Edition

B. Standards

• ASHRAE Standard 90.1– Energy Standard for Buildings

Design Narrative

• Water main shall be sized based on plumbing fixture requirements and coordination, as required, with Fire Protection System designer. Sewer main shall be sized based on plumbing fixture requirements and coordinated with site design.

• Sanitary piping shall be Schedule 40 PVC DWV.

• Above ground water piping shall be soldered Type L copper with wrought fittings or CPVC with solvent welded fittings. Piping shall be insulated with jacketed fiberglass insulation or closed-cell foam.

• Floor drains with trap protection shall be provided in restrooms, janitor rooms, and mechanical spaces.

C. Basis of Design Fixtures:

• FD-1: ZURN MN# Z415B PROVIDE TRAP PRIMER IF INDICATED ON PLANS

OTHERWISE PROVIDE TRAP GUARD FOR ALL FLOOR DRAINS.

• HB-1: ZURN MN# Z1341 ANTI-SIPHON HOSE BIBB, WITH VACUUM BREAKER

• L-1: AMERICAN STANDARD MN# 0356.015 WALL MOUNTED LAVATORY,

WHITE, VITREOUS CHINA, WITH OVERFLOW. FAUCET: MN#. 6114.113,

SINGLE LEVER, 0.35 GPM

• WC-1: AMERICAN STANDARD MN# 3451.001 MADERA ELONGATED FLOOR

MOUNT FLUSHOMETER TOILET WITH DUAL FLUSH (1.6/1.1 GPF) EXPOSED

VALVE.

• COTG-1: ZURN MN# ZN1400, TO BE CENTERED IN A 24”x24”x2” CONCRETE

BASE AT GRADE.

• EWH-1: RUUD MN# EGSP20, 6Kw, PROVIDE WITH INSULATION JACKET…