Updated Attachment B 598-19-127 Construction Documents Narrative 03-17-2025.pdf

Renovate Building 104 – LETC Page 1 of 45 598-19-117 Eugene J. Towbin VAMC CONSTRUCTION DOCUMENTS SUBMISISON 36C-256-18-D-0128 03-17-2025

VA Project No. 598-19-127

Renovate Building 104 - LETC Eugene J. Towbin VAMC Campus

Ft. Roots North Little Rock, AR

DESIGN NARRATIVE

CONSTRUCTION DOCUMENTS SUBMISSION

03-17-2025

JohnsonDanforth & Associates

JohnsonDanforth, Inc.

2200 N. Rodney Parham Road | Suite 210 Little Rock, AR 72212 P: (501) 404-4811

F: (501) 404-2411

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TABLE OF CONTENTS

CHAPTER 01

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

PROJECT SUMMARY

BASIS OF VALIDATION

PROJECT SCHEDULE – 100% TO RTA

CHAPTER 02

HISTORIC PRESERVATION

SUMMARY

CODES, STANDARDS AND DESIGN CRITERIA

EXISTING CONDITIONS

SCOPE OF NEW WORK

LIST OF ASSUMPTIONS AND LIMITING FACTORS

CHAPTER 03

HAZARDOUS MATERIALS

SUMMARY

CODES, STANDARDS AND DESIGN CRITERIA

EXISTING CONDITIONS

DESIGN APPROACH

LIST OF ASSUMPTIONS AND LIMITING FACTORS

CHAPTER 04

CIVIL SITE AND UTILITIES

CHAPTER 05

STRUCTURAL DESIGN

SUMMARY

CODES, STANDARDS AND DESIGN CRITERIA

EXISTING CONDITIONS

SCOPE OF NEW WORK

LIST OF ASSUMPTIONS AND LIMITING FACTORS

CHAPTER 06

ARCHITECTURAL / INTERIOR DESIGN

SUMMARY

CODES, STANDARDS AND DESIGN CRITERIA

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EXISTING CONDITIONS

SCOPE OF NEW WORK

LIST OF ASSUMPTIONS AND LIMITING FACTORS:

CHAPTER 07

FIRE PROTECTION DESIGN

SUMMARY

CODES, STANDARDS AND DESIGN CRITERIA

EXISTING CONDITIONS

SCOPE OF NEW WORK

LIST OF ASSUMPTIONS AND LIMITING FACTORS

CHAPTER 08

PLUMBING DESIGN

SUMMARY

CODES, STANDARDS AND DESIGN CRITERIA

EXISTING CONDITIONS

SCOPE OF NEW WORK

LIST OF ASSUMPTIONS AND LIMITING FACTORS

CHAPTER 09

MECHANICAL DESIGN

SUMMARY

CODES, STANDARDS AND DESIGN CRITERIA

EXISTING CONDITIONS

NEW SYSTEMS CONSIDERED

SCOPE OF NEW WORK

LIST OF ASSUMPTIONS AND LIMITING FACTORS

CHAPTER 10

ELECTRICAL DESIGN

SUMMARY

CODES, STANDARDS AND DESIGN CRITERIA

EXISTING CONDITIONS

SCOPE OF NEW WORK

LIST OF ASSUMPTIONS AND LIMITING FACTORS

CHAPTER 11

TELECOMMUNICATIONS DESIGN

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SUMMARY

CODES, STANDARDS AND DESIGN CRITERIA

EXISTING CONDITIONS

SCOPE OF NEW WORK

LIST OF ASSUMPTIONS AND LIMITING FACTORS

APPENDICES

APPENDIX A - NEPA CATEX FORM

APPENDIX B - CUT SHEETS

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CHAPTER 01

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

PROJECT SUMMARY

Project scope is a renovation of Building 104, a historic building located on the campus of Fort Roots, VA North Little Rock, Arkansas. Fort Roots, its associated buildings, as well as the adjacent Eugene J.

Towbin (EJT) Healthcare Center, are part of the Central Arkansas Veterans Healthcare System (CAVHS).

Building 104 currently serves the VA Law Enforcement Training Center (LETC) as training and administrative space. This project will provide a renovation of the historic structure to better meet the needs of law enforcement user groups.

The Scope of Work includes renovation of both interior and exterior elements including building restrooms and shower room upgrades to conform to ADA/ABA accessibility requirements; structural work to correct inadequate floor capacity, limited new finishes and comprehensive replacement of all mechanical systems to meet modern standards, and the replacement of exterior fire escapes and access ramp.

Deduct Alternates have been identified as follows:

Alternate No. 1: Deduct all exterior work;

Alternate No. 2: Deduct renovation of first floor restrooms;

Alternate No. 3: Deduct renovation of second floor restrooms

Refer to Spec section 01 00 00 for full description of all bid items.

BASIS OF VALIDATION

The project team, including representatives from Johnson Danforth, Bernhard, VA engineering and LETC conducted an onsite existing conditions validation survey and team meeting on September 30, 2024.

During the survey, the project team confirmed the space-by-space scope of work with VA engineering and LETC leadership. The results of that meeting are summarized in this narrative in subsequent chapters.

PROJECT SCHEDULE – 100% TO RTA

Task Start End 100% Submission to VA February 14, 2025 100% VA Review February 14, 2025 March 3, 2025 100% Review Meeting March 3, 2025 RTA Development March 4, 2025 March 17, 2025 RTA Submission to VA March 17, 2025

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CHAPTER 02

HISTORIC PRESERVATION

SUMMARY

The Veterans Administration Hospital, North Little Rock Division (Fort Logan H. Roots Military Post) is a listed property in the National Register of Historic Structures, ref #74000498. As such, the requirements of PG-18-17 “NEPA Interim Guidance for Projects” are applicable.

CODES, STANDARDS AND DESIGN CRITERIA

PG-18-17 “NEPA Interim Guidance for Projects”

EXISTING CONDITIONS

B104 is a contributing structure for the NRHS record. The existing structure has been modified both internally and externally since initial construction.

SCOPE OF NEW WORK

From the NEPA Interim Guidance for Projects: “The NEPA process is "done" at the completion of one of three levels of evaluation:

1. Categorical Exclusion (CATEX)

2. Environmental Assessment (EA) with a Finding of No Significant Impact (FONSI)

3. Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) with a Record of Decision (ROD)”

The environmental assessment process is initiated as part of the project planning phase by Agency-level personnel and defines the purpose and need for a project as well as a proposed action. Preliminary scoping of potential environmental impacts and potential alternatives to those impacts follows.

Neither the original reduced Statement of Work nor the project modification Scope of Work adding back the mechanical modifications identifies potential impacts to either archeological or historic resources by the proposed interior and exterior work.

Following the steps of the NEPA process for small projects, an environmental assessment has been performed for the project. Based on the disturbed land area and allowable building area limits, the environmental assessment has concluded that this project meets the criteria for a Categorical Exclusion. From 38 CFR Part 26:

VA Categorical Exclusions List:

1. Repair, replacement, and new installation of primary or secondary electrical distribution systems;

2. Repair, replacement, and new installation of components such as windows, doors, roofs;

and site elements such as sidewalks, patios, fences, retaining walls, curbs, water distribution lines, and sewer lines which involve work totally within VA property boundaries;

3. Routine VA grounds and facility maintenance activities;

4. Procurement activities for goods and services for routing facility operations maintenance and support;

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5. Interior construction or renovation;

6. New construction of 75,000 gross square feet or less;

7. Development of 20 acres of land or less within an existing cemetery, or development on acquired land of five acres or less;

8. Actions which involve support or ancillary appurtenances for normal operation;

9. Leases, licenses, permits, and easements;

10. Reduction in force resulting from workload adjustments, reduced personnel or funding levels, skill imbalances or other similar causes;

11. VA policies, actions and studies which do not significantly affect the quality of the human environment;

12. Preparation of regulations, directives, manuals or other guidance that implement, but do not substantially change, the regulations, directives, manuals, or other guidance of higher organizational levels or another Federal agency; and

13. Actions, activities, or programs that do not require expenditure of Federal funds.

Items specifically applicable to this project’s scope of work are items 2, 5 and 7.

A copy of the CATEX is included in the appendices.

LIST OF ASSUMPTIONS AND LIMITING FACTORS

None at this time.

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CHAPTER 03

HAZARDOUS MATERIALS

SUMMARY

The VA PG-18-10 Asbestos Abatement Design Manual requires hazardous material identification and remediation as part of renovation projects.

CODES, STANDARDS AND DESIGN CRITERIA

PG-18-10 Asbestos Abatement Design Manual, July 2011

EXISTING CONDITIONS

Building 104 is a historic building consisting of a basement, first floor, second floor and attic level. B104 has undergone multiple renovations since initial construction. Per the VA COR, the latest Hazardous Materials survey shows no asbestos or lead based paint in Building 104.

DESIGN APPROACH

The project documents will note the COR’s direction regarding no existing hazardous materials and instruct the contractor to notify the COR if suspected materials are found during the project duration.

LIST OF ASSUMPTIONS AND LIMITING FACTORS

• Per the VA COR, the latest Hazardous Materials survey shows no asbestos or lead based paint in Building 104.

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CHAPTER 04

CIVIL SITE AND UTILITIES

SUMMARY

The civil scope of work includes accessibility and drainage improvements along the north and south ends of building and replacing the existing ramp located south of the building.

CODES, STANDARDS AND DESIGN CRITERIA

• PG-18-3 Design and Construction Procedures

• PG-18-4 Standard Details and CAD Standards / VA BIM Guide

• PG-18-13 Barrier-Free Design Guide

• Architectural Barriers Act Accessibility Standard (ABAAS)

EXISTING CONDITIONS

Building 104 has four access along the north, east, south and west side of the building. There is an existing sidewalk along the west to the south-east providing access to the south and the west entrance.

Further, there is an existing sidewalk providing access to the north and the east door. Water line service was found on the south-west of the building.

SCOPE OF NEW WORK

• Demolishing existing site concretes, walls as necessary to construct new stairs, walls and ramps.

• Connecting the proposed stairs on the north and south end of the building to the existing sidewalks and maintaining accessibility of those sidewalk connections.

• Removing & replacing the existing ramp on the south side of the building.

• Improving the stormwater drainage on the north-west corner of the building by installing two storm drain catch-basins.

• Proposing erosion control measures to mitigate stormwater pollution during construction.

• No gas line was found in the survey. Utility plans for the adjacent site were used for the proposed gas connection.

The existing floor drain connection on the basement entry was not located inside the building. The proposed drain was called out to connect with the existing system.

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CHAPTER 05

STRUCTURAL DESIGN

SUMMARY

Structural work is required as follows provide new floor support in room 110, add new stair at east and west ends of building and revise existing ramp on east end.

CODES, STANDARDS AND DESIGN CRITERIA

• PG-18-10 Structural Design Manual

• H-18-8 Seismic Design Requirements

EXISTING CONDITIONS

Existing floor framing under the copier is wood framed with 2x10 @ 16” on center spanning 13’-6”. The support for the wood 2x members is load-bearing walls on each end of the members.

SCOPE OF NEW WORK

• The structural scope of work includes the addition of new floor support beam, column and foundation to stiffen existing floor framing for a Ricoh Pro C7200SL copier in room 110.

• Replace the existing vertical fire escape ladders on east and west ends of building with code compliant stairs.

• Demo and construct new laundry ramp at the east end to be ABA compliant.

LIST OF ASSUMPTIONS AND LIMITING FACTORS

• No existing structural drawings have been provided for building.

• Geotechnical report has been provided from adjacent site.

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CHAPTER 06

ARCHITECTURAL / INTERIOR DESIGN

SUMMARY

The Architectural Scope of Work includes renovation of restrooms and shower rooms, principally to conform to ADA/ABA accessibility requirements, new exterior egress components and work supporting the mechanical and electrical work throughout all spaces.

CODES, STANDARDS AND DESIGN CRITERIA

• H-08-13, Environmental Checklist for Barrier Free Design

• H-08-8, Earthquake Resistant Design Requirements for VA Medical Center Facilities

• International Building Code, 2024

• NFPA 101 Life Safety Code, 2024

• PG-18-1 Master Construction Specifications

• PG-18-3 Design and Construction Procedures

• PG-18-4 Standard Details and CAD Standards / VA BIM Guide

• PG-18-5 Equipment Guide List (Chapter 276 Radiology Service)

• PG-18-9 Space Planning Criteria (Chapters 252 Nuclear Medicine and Chapter 276 Radiology

Service)

• PG-18-10 Design Manuals – Architectural

• PG-18-13 Barrier-Free Design Guide

• PG-18-14 Room Finishes, Door and Hardware Schedules

• PG-18-15 Design Submission Instructions

• PG-18-17 NEPA Interim Guidance for Projects

• H-18-8 Seismic Design Requirements

• AIA Guidelines for Design and Construction of Health Care Facilities

• Architectural Barriers Act Accessibility Standard (ABAAS)

• Signage Design Guide

EXISTING CONDITIONS

Building 104 is a historic building consisting of a basement, first floor, second floor and attic level. It is currently categorized as a “contributing structure” on the National Registry of Historic Structures record #74000498 for Fort Roots. B104 has undergone multiple renovations since initial construction.

SCOPE OF NEW WORK

The Architectural scope of work is primarily focused on renovation of restrooms, support of required mechanical and electrical scope and new exterior egress components.

Scope by space:

EQUIPMENT 002

• Work in this room is limited to mechanical and electrical demolition, modification and installation of new equipment.

ENTRY 100

• No work is required in this space.

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FOYER 100A

• No work is required in this space.

STAIR 101

• No work is required in this space.

JANITOR 102

• Partitions surrounding this space are being removed and reconfigured.

• Removal of existing janitor sink and installation of new janitor sink.

• Existing AT ceiling and grid will be removed and new AT ceiling and grid installed.

TRAINING 103

• No work is required in this space.

STORAGE 103A

• Existing flooring will be removed and new flooring installed.

TRAINING 104 / STORAGE 104B

• These rooms are being combined.

• All walls will be repainted to match existing color, sheen and texture.

• Existing flooring will be removed and new flooring installed.

MECH 104A

• Work in these spaces is limited to the replacement of mechanical equipment.

COPIER ROOM 105 / DIRECTOR 110

• These rooms are being combined.

• A new structural beam is being installed below the current 105 existing copier machine to provide adequate support.

• All walls will be repainted to match existing color, sheen and texture.

• Existing flooring will be removed and new flooring installed.

OFFICE 106, CLOSET 106A

• Existing flooring will be removed and new flooring installed.

LAUNDRY 107 / CLOSET 107A

• Work in these spaces is limited to the replacement of mechanical equipment.

OFFICE 108

• Existing flooring will be removed and new flooring installed.

STORAGE 109, CLOSET 109A

• Existing flooring will be removed and new flooring installed.

IT / STORAGE 112

• No work is required in this space.

MEN’S RESTROOM 113

• Complete removal of all floor, base, wall and ceiling finishes.

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• Removal of existing toilet compartments and accessories.

• Removal of existing plumbing fixtures and countertops.

• Removal of existing entry door and frame and enlargement of existing corridor partition to allow for larger entry door.

• New wall framing.

• New floor, base, wall and ceiling finishes.

• New toilet compartments.

• New plumbing fixtures and countertops.

• New accessories.

• New entry door and frame.

WOMEN’S RESTROOM 114

• Complete removal of all floor, base, wall and ceiling finishes.

• Removal of existing toilet compartments and accessories.

• Removal of existing plumbing fixtures and countertops.

• Removal of existing entry door and frame and enlargement of existing corridor partition to allow for larger entry door.

• New wall framing.

• New floor, base, wall and ceiling finishes.

• New toilet compartments.

• New plumbing fixtures and countertops.

• New accessories.

• New entry door and frame.

CORRIDOR 115 / 115A

• No work is required in these spaces.

WORKROOM 115B

• No work is required in this space.

OFFICE 111, CLOSET 111B

• Existing flooring will be removed and new flooring installed.

GUEST ROOM 200, CLOSET 200A, CLOSET 200B

• Existing flooring will be removed and new flooring installed.

GUEST ROOM 201, CLOSET 201A, CLOSET 201B

• Existing flooring will be removed and new flooring installed.

OFFICE 202, OFFICE 203

• These spaces are being combined into a conference room.

• Existing demising wall will be removed.

• All walls will be repainted to match existing color, sheen and texture.

• Existing flooring will be removed and new flooring installed.

CLOSET 202A, CLOSET 202B

• These spaces are being completely removed.

CLOSET 203A, CLOSET 203B

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• These spaces are being completely removed.

OFFICE 204, CLOSET 204A

• Existing flooring will be removed and new flooring installed.

OFFICE 205, CLOSET 205A, CLOSET 205B

• Existing flooring will be removed and new flooring installed.

OFFICE 206, CLOSET 206A, CLOSET 206B

• Existing flooring will be removed and new flooring installed.

OFFICE 207, CLOSET 207A, CLOSET 207B

• Existing flooring will be removed and new flooring installed.

OFFICE 208, CLOSET 208A, CLOSET 208B

• Existing flooring will be removed and new flooring installed.

OFFICE 209, CLOSET 209A, CLOSET 209B

• Existing flooring will be removed and new flooring installed.

OFFICE 210, CLOSET 210A, CLOSET 210B

• Existing flooring will be removed and new flooring installed.

OFFICE 211, CLOSET 211A, CLOSET 211B

• Existing flooring will be removed and new flooring installed.

TELE EQUIP 212, CLOSET 212A, CLOSET 212B, CLOSET 212C

• No work is required in these spaces.

STAIR 213

• No work is required in this space.

MEN’S RESTROOM 214

• Complete removal of all floor, base, wall and ceiling finishes.

• Removal of existing toilet compartments and accessories.

• Removal of existing plumbing fixtures and countertops.

• Removal of existing entry door and frame and enlargement of existing corridor partition to allow for larger entry door.

• New wall framing.

• New floor, base, wall and ceiling finishes.

• New toilet compartments.

• New plumbing fixtures and countertops.

• New accessories.

• New entry door and frame.

WOMEN’S RESTROOM 215

• Complete removal of all floor, base, wall and ceiling finishes.

• Removal of existing toilet compartments and accessories.

• Removal of existing plumbing fixtures and countertops.

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• Removal of existing entry door and frame and enlargement of existing corridor partition to allow for larger entry door.

• New wall framing.

• New floor, base, wall and ceiling finishes.

• New toilet compartments.

• New plumbing fixtures and countertops.

• New accessories.

• New entry door and frame.

JANITOR 215A

• Existing flooring will be removed and new flooring installed.

• Existing AT ceiling and grid will be removed and new AT ceiling and grid installed.

EXTERIOR WORK

• Existing fire escape platforms and ladders at north and south facades will be removed.

• New steel stair will be installed at north end. A portion of existing walk must be removed and replaced to correct insufficient subgrade conditions as well as to support new egress stair.

Figure: Existing conditions under north walk illustrating exposed rebar and washed out subgrade

• New steel stair and concrete ramp / walk will be installed at south end. Existing ramp appears to have been poured directly over existing stairs. Cracking of the concrete structure appears in

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36C-256-18-D-0128 03-17-2025 several places extending completely through and across the ramp surface. Suitability of this structure to support a new stair is indeterminate. To accomplish required scope, landing, ramp and stairs (both from level 1 to grade and stairwell to basement) will be removed and replaced with new ramp and stairs. Landing will be designed to support new egress stair. LETC director has requested new ramp be ABAAS-compliant if possible within existing space limitations.

SUPPORTING WORK FOR MECHANICAL OPTIONS:

LCCA Option 1, Water Source Heat Pump: Supporting work for Option 1 is limited to removals and replacements of existing construction to facilitate replacement of existing mechanical equipment and piping.

LCCA Option 2, 4-Pipe Fan Coil Units: If this option was pursued, a new mechanical yard with concrete foundations, slab and perimeter wall would be required as well as exterior lighting and security systems.

A Force Protection Risk Mitigation analysis of potential threats would be required and the yard enclosure designed in accordance with analysis.

LCCA Option 3, Variable Refrigerant Flow: Supporting work for this option is similar to that of Option 1.

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FIGURE: EXISTING LAUNDRY RAMP ILLUSTRATING CRACKING OF STRUCTURE.

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Note: Topographic survey of existing grades in area of existing ramp will be necessary to confirm there is adequate length for an ABAAS-compliant sloped ramp with connections to existing walk grade(s).

LIST OF ASSUMPTIONS AND LIMITING FACTORS:

• None at this time.

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CHAPTER 07

FIRE PROTECTION DESIGN

SUMMARY

Modifications to the existing building sprinkler piping systems system will be in conjunction with the reconfiguration of the room spaces shown on the Contract Drawings.

CODES, STANDARDS AND DESIGN CRITERIA

The primary fire and life safety codes and standards for this project are as follows:

• VA Fire Protection Design Manual – Eighth Edition

• NFPA 101, Life Safety Code, 2021 Edition

• NFPA 13, Standard for the Installation of Sprinkler Systems, 2019 Edition

• NFPA 70, National Electric Code, 2020 Edition

• NFPA 72, National Fire Alarm and Signaling Code, 2019 Edition

• NFPA 90A, Standard for the Installation of Air-conditioning and Ventilating Systems, 2021 Edition

EXISTING CONDITIONS

The building is protected by a single-zone dry-pipe sprinkler system. Piping installed is Schedule 40.

Sprinklers installed in the pendent position are installed with return bends. It is estimated that the existing system has been in service for approximately 37 years. The system is arranged with a wall-mounted fire department connection which is marked with exterior signage. Sprinkler coverage is included in all closets. No deficiencies were noted regarding the condition of the automatic sprinkler system.

SCOPE OF NEW WORK

• Existing sprinklers will be removed which are located inside of room closet spaces scheduled to be demolished. The 1-inch sprinkler branch connected to the sprinklers to be removed will be specified to be deleted back to the sprinkler cross main located in the adjacent corridor. A threaded plug will be specified to be installed at the remaining threaded branch outlet.

• The existing single sprinkler in each room where closets are demolished are located for compliant coverage of the entire room, including the floor space that will be added when the closets are demolished, based on the NFPA 13 coverage for rooms less than 800 square feet. No location change is needed for the remaining room sprinklers.

• The locations of existing sprinklers located in Rooms 202 and 203 will provide adequate coverage and maintain compliant spacing with NFPA 15 with the removal of the existing wall dividing these rooms. Existing sprinklers are specified to remain in the existing locations.

Several room sprinklers were noted to have the sprinkler escutcheon missing. The sprinkler scope of work includes a requirement to make any required adjustments and add install missing escutcheons to remaining room sprinklers which are correctly installed.

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CHAPTER 08

PLUMBING DESIGN

SUMMARY

Bernhard conducted a site investigation on September 30th. The existing toilets within the project area do not comply with ADA/ABA accessibility guidelines. Also, the existing toilets have outdated plumbing fixtures and finishes. The existing water heater is operational but beyond its useful life.

CODES, STANDARDS AND DESIGN CRITERIA

VA Design manuals, standards, criteria and space requirements are provided on the VA TIL site. This includes the following but is not limited to this list and the latest guidelines at contract award hold precedence over dated information in this supplement.

PG-18-3 Design and Construction Procedures PG-18-4 VA Standard Details PG-18-10 Plumbing Design Manual H-18-8 Earthquake Resistant Deign Requirements for VAMC Facilities International Building Code Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) Standards

EXISTING CONDITIONS

Plumbing fixtures are located in the building restrooms and janitor’s closets. The fixtures have manual flush valves and faucets. Restrooms will be modified for this project and fixtures replaced. Existing toilets do not comply with ADA/ABA accessibility requirements.

Existing sanitary piping located below the slab of the ground floor that serves existing fixtures to be removed will be capped below slab or in walls that are not being removed. Existing sanitary piping located above ceiling of first floor that serves existing fixtures above will be removed to existing mains or existing drain stacks. Cap existing sanitary piping at existing mains or existing drain stacks.

Existing vent piping located above ceiling of first floor serving existing first floor fixtures will be re-used as necessary.

Existing domestic cold-water water pipe to be reworked as necessary for new fixture layouts. Shutdown of domestic cold-water system will be coordinated with owner prior to any removal of domestic cold-water piping or fixtures.

Domestic hot water is produced by a 120-gallon electric water heater located in the basement mechanical room. The tank was manufactured in 2004. Unit is in working order but is nearing end of its expected service life.

SCOPE OF NEW WORK

The domestic cold-water service will connect to existing domestic cold-water mains serving the space being renovated. Reuse existing domestic cold-water piping that has been valved and capped where possible. Coordinate shut down of existing domestic cold-water system for new connections with owner.

Domestic cold-water piping will be distributed throughout the renovation space with isolation valves for

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36C-256-18-D-0128 03-17-2025 each group of fixtures. Water piping above slab will be Type “L” copper with wrought copper press-type fittings.

The domestic hot water service will connect to the existing domestic hot water mains serving the space being renovated. Reuse existing domestic hot water piping that has been valved and capped where possible. Coordinate shut down of existing domestic hot water system for new connections with owner.

Domestic hot water piping will be distributed throughout the renovation space with isolation valves for each fixture. Water piping above slab will be Type “L” copper with wrought copper press-type or soldered fittings.

Domestic hot water supply and return piping will be Type “L” copper with wrought copper press-type or soldered fittings.

Domestic hot water return thermostatic balancing valves (automatic type) with strainer and shut-off valves will be used where two or more domestic hot water return lines intersect to balance each system so that hot water flows equally to all fixtures.

Domestic water piping will be insulated with semi-rigid fiberglass. Domestic water piping where exposed will be additionally covered with a PVC jacket.

Plumbing fixtures will be of the heavy-duty commercial type.

The china plumbing fixtures will be Sloan or approved equal. The flush valves will be Sloan or approved equal. The lavatory and sink faucets will be T & S Brass or approved equal.

Water closets will be vitreous china, floor mounted with bottom outlet. Water closets will have hard-wired sensor operated 1.28 gpf flush valves.

Urinals will be vitreous china, wall mounted, will be installed with carriers and hard-wired sensor operated 0.125 gpf flush valves.

Lavatories will either be wall mounted or self-rimming countertop type constructed of vitreous china.

Wall mounted lavatories will include wall carriers. Lavatory trim will be ADA compliant with chrome-plated brass; hard-wired sensor faucets. P-traps, and loose key supply stops. Manual faucets will have replaceable cartridges.

Floor drains will be cast iron with either brass strainers in finished areas or cast-iron strainers in mechanical rooms. Each public toilet will include a floor drain. Other floor drains will be located for specific use at mechanical equipment. Floor drains will include trap seal protection.

Saw cut and trench existing floor for installation of new sanitary piping located below slab, on grade of the first level floor. Backfill and repair floor as required to complete new sanitary piping installation.

Core drill and seal new piping penetrations through slabs not on grade for all floors.

Sanitary sewer piping will be routed throughout the building to each fixture and drain.

Interior sanitary sewer piping will be cast iron with no-hub fittings. Exterior and below grade piping will be either cast iron hub and spigot type with cast iron DWV hub and spigot fittings or schedule 40 solid core PVC with DWV fittings.

Interior vent piping will be cast iron with no-hub fittings.

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CHAPTER 09

MECHANICAL DESIGN

SUMMARY

Bernhard conducted a site investigation on September 30th. The existing HVAC systems in the building are well beyond their useful life. The deterioration of the water source heat pump units has necessitated the use of portable AC units in some areas. Additionally, the existing piping shows signs of corrosion.

Previous engineering reports indicate that the campus steam distribution is being phased out due to concerns about reliability and efficiency.

The Primary Goal of The HVAC Renovation Scope is The Following:

1. Enhance thermal comfort and humidity control for building occupants.

2. Implement a more resilient system and disconnect the building from the campus steam loop.

3. Achieve the VA’s energy efficiency goals.

4. Comply with all applicable codes.

• Ensure the system offers the best life cycle cost for long-term building ownership.

• Minimize impact on the building’s exterior aesthetics and functionality.

• Reuse equipment where possible to maximize the building’s investment, provided the equipment still has significant remaining useful life as determined by the engineer and owner.

CODES, STANDARDS AND DESIGN CRITERIA

• VA Design Manuals, Standards, Criteria, and Space Requirements are provided on the VA TIL site.

This includes the following but is not limited to this list and the latest guidelines at contract award hold precedence over dated information in this supplement.

o PG-18-3 Design and Construction Procedures o PG-18-4 VA Standard Details o PG-18-10 HVAC Design Manual o ES-2019-001 Cooling Tower Water Systems o H-18-8 Earthquake Resistant Design Requirements for VAMC Facilities

• International Building Code 2021

• International Existing Building Code (IEBC) 2021

EXISTING CONDITIONS

The current central energy system consists of floor-mounted console-type water source heat pump (WSHP) units and portable air conditioning (PAC) units. It features a single shell-and-tube heat exchanger in the basement and a cooling tower located in the mechanical yard on the west side of the adjacent building. The tower piping runs underneath the adjacent building and through the crawl space to the basement mechanical room.

The shell-and-tube heat exchanger works with the cooling tower to cool air streams and prevent particulates from entering the water stream going into the WSHP. For heating, the heat exchanger pre-heats the water before it enters the WSHP for further heating to reach the desired temperature. The dedicated outside air unit (DOAS) is in the attic, providing ventilation air directly into spaces via ceiling air diffusers.

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EXISTING WATER SOURCE HEAT PUMPS AND WINDOW AIR CONDITIONERS

The first and second floors are served by a mix of water source heat pumps (WSHPs). Approximately thirty (30) floor-mounted console-type WSHPs serve the first and second floors, while one vertical WSHP unit with dedicated supply ductwork serves (1) room. (10) Portable air conditioners are used throughout the building to supplement broken WSHPs. Over the years, heat pump units have been repaired or replaced as needed due to failures. Most of these units are now well beyond their useful life and are due for replacement.

Floor-Mounted WSHP and PAC Unit Vertical WSHP

Floor-Mounted WSHP in Bathrooms Damaged Floor-Mounted WSHP and

Supplement PAC

EXISTING WSHP LOOP PUMPS

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There are two pumps located in the basement mechanical room used for the WSHP building loop. The pumps are past their useful life and need replacement.

Building Pump 1 Building Pump 2

EXISTING VENTILATION UNIT

The building is served by a dedicated outside air unit (DOAS), OAHU-1, located in the attic. This unit features a DX cooling coil and a steam pre-heating coil, with steam piping routed from the basement to the attic to connect to the heating coil.

The OAHU-1 condensing unit is positioned on the south side of the building. Ventilation air is distributed from OAHU-1 to terminal boxes in the attic, which zone the air into six different zones on the floors below. The second floor is served directly from the attic, while the first-floor ventilation ducts are routed through the second floor, using furr downs to conceal the ductwork where necessary.

OAHU-1 and the associated condensing unit will be replaced with new equipment matching the capacities of the existing. A gas fired duct heater will be installed on the intake side of the new unit to replace the function of the steam pre-heating coil.

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OAHU-1 Steam and Chill Water Piping DOAS Unit, OAHU-1, Located in Attic

EXISTING COOLING TOWER

The water-source heat pump (WSHP) system operates with a closed-loop water system, which includes the existing cooling tower located outside the building. This closed loop features a water circulation system that pumps water from a basin at the bottom of the tower, showering it onto the closed-loop piping through the building’s water loop. The cooling tower functions similarly to a condensing unit, rejecting heat to the atmosphere during the cooling season. However, unlike a split system that uses refrigerant, the cooling tower uses water.

The existing cooling tower is well past its useful life and is scheduled for replacement as part of the renovation scope.

Cooling Tower (Front View) Cooling Tower Piping

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EXISTING HEAT EXCHANGERS

Steam is currently fed to the building from the campus district steam system and converted to heating water with a single shell-and-tube heat exchanger. The heat exchanger system includes an air separator, valves, flash tanks, and additional necessary accessories.

There has been a communicated desire to remove Building 104 from the campus steam system due to leaks and maintenance issues in recent years. All aspects of the steam and heating water generation system show significant signs of deterioration.

The system will be removed and replaced with a boiler to provide heating water for the building.

Shell-and-Tube Heat Exchanger Shell-and-Tube Heat Exchanger

NEW SYSTEMS CONSIDERED

Bernhard has determined three (3) mechanical system options that meet the system’s goals outlined above:

1 – WATER-SOURCE HEAT PUMP (WSHP) UPGRADE

DEMOLITION SCOPE

1. Remove all existing WSHP and PAC units and all associated piping up to isolation valves.

2. Demolish the existing cooling tower.

3. Remove existing steam heat exchanger.

4. Demolish steam lines serving the existing steam heat exchanger.

5. Remove existing steam pre-heat coil from DOAS unit.

6. Demo the (3) existing WSHP loop pumps.

NEW WORK SCOPE

1. Replace all existing WSHP units in place with similar unit types. All existing floor-mounted and closet unit WSHPs will be replaced with similar type units in place.

2. Existing piping throughout the building will be replaced with new piping as needed.

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3. Install three (3) new WSHP loop pumps. Each pump should be rated at 75-GPM and 40-ft.

H2O.

4. Install a new WSHP loop air dirt separator (ADS).

5. Install new cooling tower. New chemical treatment and a domestic water fill line will be installed with the new cooling tower.

6. Install a new condensing heating water boiler in basement mechanical room rated at 400

MBH. Sitework will provide a new gas line to the boiler.

7. Install a new gas duct heater into the DOAS supply ductwork.

8. Upgrade building controls to direct digital controls (DDC).

9. Tie into the existing VA campus monitoring.

2 – 4-PIPE FAN COILS UNITS (FCU)

DEMOLITION SCOPE

1. Remove all existing WSHP and PAC units and all associated piping.

2. Demolish the existing cooling tower.

3. Remove existing steam heat exchanger.

4. Demolish steam lines serving the existing steam heat exchanger.

5. Remove existing steam pre-heat coil from DOAS unit.

6. Demo the (3) existing WSHP loop pumps.

NEW WORK SCOPE

1. Replace all existing WSHP units with similar fan coil units (FCUs). All existing floor-mounted and closet unit WSHPs will be replaced with similar type 4-pipe units in place.

2. Install a new 4-pipe system in place of the existing piping.

3. Install chilled water and hot water loop pumps. Each pump should be rated at 75 GPM and 40

ft. H2O.

4. Install new chilled water and hot water loops ADS.

5. Install new FCU loop piping.

6. Install in a new air-cooled chiller to be located adjacent to the existing building. Chemical treatment should be installed for chilled water loops.

7. Install a new boiler in basement mechanical room rated at 400 MBH. Site work will provide a new gas line for the boiler.

8. Install new hot water coil in existing DOAS pre-heat coil position. Reconnect existing controls system to the new valve.

9. Upgrade the building controls to DDC.

10. Tie into the existing VA campus monitoring.

3 – VARIABLE REFRIGERANT FLOW

DEMOLITION SCOPE

1. Remove all existing WSHP and PAC units and all associated piping.

2. Demolish the existing cooling tower.

3. Remove existing steam heat exchanger.

4. Demolish steam lines serving the existing steam heat exchanger.

5. Remove existing steam pre-heat coil from DOAS unit.

6. Demo the (2) existing WSHP loop pumps.

NEW WORK SCOPE

1. Replace all existing WSHP units in place with similar VRF indoor units.

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2. Install new refrigerant piping in the building.

3. Install new branch selectors.

4. Install new outdoor VRF condensing units.

5. Place in refrigerant detection system to comply with ASHRAE 15.

6. Install a new duct gas heater into the DOAS ductwork.

7. Upgrade the building controls to DDC.

8. Tie into the existing VA campus monitoring.

SCOPE OF NEW WORK

Bernhard evaluated three (3) system alternatives by creating energy models, developing cost estimates for complete system installations, and conducting a 40-year life cycle cost analysis (LCCA). The LCCA revealed that the water-source heat pump upgrade option has the lowest total cost of ownership over the next 40 years.

WATER SOURCE HEAT PUMPS (WSHPs) The first floor of Building 104 will have thirteen (13) new water-source heat pumps (WSHPs) installed in the same locations as the existing units. The second floor will host eighteen (18) new WSHPs, also located in the same locations as the existing units. The basis of design for the WSHPs includes:

• Floor-mounted WSHP unit(s): Trane Axiom™ High-Efficiency Console

• Vertical WSHP unit(s): Trane Axiom™ Horizontal and Vertical Water Source Heat Pumps

Each heat pump will be sized according to the load calculation results. Vertical WSHP unit will be reconnected to supply ductwork and return ductwork served by the existing unit.

EVAPORATIVE FLUID COOLER

The new closed-loop cooling tower will serve the WSHP system. It will be located adjacent to Building 104 and connected via a new underground pipe. The tower will also include new chemical treatment and domestic water fill lines. The design basis for the cooling tower and additional components includes:

• Cooling tower: 25-Ton Marley MHF Evaporative Fluid Cooler

• Chemical treatment: NCH Chem-Aqua or MarleyGard CD Chemical Delivery System

WSHP LOOP PUMPS

Two (2) heating water inline circulator pumps and one (1) cooling water end-suction, close-coupled pump will be installed for the water-source heat pump (WSHP) loop in the basement mechanical room. The two (2) circulator pumps will serve the boiler to transport heating water, while the end-suction, close-coupled pump will serve the cooling tower to transport cool water.

The design basis for the pumps includes:

• Circulator pumps – 75 GPM and 40 ft. H2O, Grundfos inline, centrifugal pumps

• End-suction, close-coupled pump – 75 GPM and 40 ft. H2O, Grundfos end-suction close coupled single stage

CONDENSING WATER PIPING

Condensing water piping on each floor will be replaced as necessary. Steel pipes will be used for diameters of 3-inches and above, while copper pipes will be used for diameters below 3-inches.

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Each floor will have new isolation ball valves on the supply and return lines. Additionally, each heat pump will be equipped with new isolation valves, strainers, control valves, check valves, and accessories.

GAS-FIRED CONDENSING BOILER

The new high efficiency condensing boiler will be installed in the basement mechanical room of Building 104. Sitework will include the provision of a new gas line for the boiler. The design basis for the boiler includes:

• Boiler – 400 MBH, CleaverBrooks ClearFire-CE Boiler

DUCTWORK

The HVAC duct drawings will indicate the pressure class and seal class of all ductworks. The HVAC duct drawings will also indicate the location of all fire dampers, smoke dampers, control dampers, and manual dampers.

NEW GAS DUCT HEATER

To supplement the steam coil in the existing Dedicated Outdoor Air System (DOAS) unit located in the attic, a gas-fired indoor gravity and power-vented duct furnace will be installed to pre-heat the outdoor air. The furnace will be sized according to the existing DOAS conditions. The design basis for the duct furnace includes:

• Duct furnace – Modine DFG/IFG and DFP/IFP

FIRE DAMPERS

Fire dampers will be located at all duct penetrations of fire resistive rated partitions and floors as required by the applicable codes. Fire dampers in low velocity ducts will be Type B and fire dampers in high velocity ducts will be Type C. Fire dampers will be manufactured by United Air or equal.

SMOKE DAMPERS

Smoke dampers will be located in duct penetrations of fire resistive rated partitions and floors as required by the applicable codes. Fire dampers in low velocity ducts will be Type B and fire dampers in high velocity will be Type C. Fire dampers will be manufactured by United air or equal.

BALANCING DAMPERS

Manual balancing dampers will be provided in the branch air duct at each supply, return, and exhaust air device. Manual balancing dampers will be equipped with extended (for externally insulated ducts) quadrant locks. Manual dampers located above inaccessible ceilings will be equipped with extended rods and surface mounted quadrant regulators.

ACCESS DOORS

Access doors will be provided at all fire dampers, smoke dampers, control dampers, and manual dampers.

DUCT DETECTORS

Duct mounted smoke detectors will be in the main supply air duct and in the main return air ducts on each floor. Duct mounted smoke detectors will be connected to the building fire alarm

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OUTSIDE AIR

Outside air ductwork from the louver to the air handling units will be externally insulated, rectangular, galvanized sheet metal and shall be jacketed with embossed aluminum jacket. The connections to the outside air louvers will be sloped downward such that any moisture that penetrates the louver will drain back out through the louver.

Ductwork will be constructed in accordance with SMACNA pressure class -1 inch and sealed in accordance with SMACNA seal class C. Ductwork will be selected for a maximum velocity of 1500 fpm and maximum pressure drop of 0.08 inches per 100 feet of duct.

EXHAUST

Exhaust air grilles will be painted aluminum with rectangular face, rectangular or round neck, and opposed blade balancing damper. Exhaust grilles will be selected to provide appropriate noise levels and air pressure drops. Exhaust grilles will be manufactured by Tuttle & Bailer, Krueger, Price, Titus, or approved equal.

RETURN

The return air will be fully ducted. Return air ductwork from water source heat pumps to the return air devices will be insulated, round or rectangular, galvanized sheet metal. Ductwork will be constructed in accordance with SMACNA Pressure Class -2 inch and sealed in accordance with SMACNA Seal Class B. Ductwork will be selected for a maximum velocity of 1,500 fpm and maximum pressure drop of 0.60 inches per 100 feet of duct.

Return air grilles will be painted aluminum with a rectangular face, rectangular or round neck, and opposed blade balancing damper. Return air grilles will be selected to provide appropriate noise levels and air pressure drops. Return air grilles will be manufactured by Tuttle & Bailer, Krueger, Price, Titus, or approved equal.

SUPPLY

Supply air ductwork from the water source heat pumps to the supply air devices will be externally insulated, round or rectangular, galvanized sheet metal. Ductwork will be constructed in accordance with SMACNA Pressure Class +1 inch and sealed in accordance with SMACNA Seal Class C. Ductwork will be selected for a maximum velocity of 1,500 fpm and maximum pressure drop of 0.08 inches per 100 feet of duct.

Supply air ceiling diffusers will be of the louvered face painted steel type with square face and round neck. Diffusers will be selected to provide the appropriate throw and acceptable noise levels. Diffusers will be manufactured by Tuttle & Bailer, Krueger, Price, Titus, or approved equal.

Supply ductwork from the ventilation air terminals to each heat pump shall be externally insulated, round or rectangular, galvanized sheet metal. Ductwork will be constructed in accordance with SMACNA Pressure Class +1 inch and sealed in accordance with SMACNA Seal Class C. Ductwork will be selected for a maximum velocity of 1,500 fpm and maximum pressure drop of 0.08 inches per 100 feet of duct.

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INSULATION

Concealed supply and return air ducts will be insulated with fiberglass duct wrap. The rectangular exposed supply air, return air, and outside air ducts will be insulated with fiberglass duct board and additionally covered with canvas.

Round and oval exposed supply air, return air, and outside air ducts will be insulated with semi-rigid fiberglass duct board and additionally covered with canvas jacket. The tops of all supply air ceiling diffusers will be insulated in a manner like the adjoining ductwork (required to prevent sweating).

Domestic cold water and domestic hot water piping will be insulated with fiberglass. Domestic cold-water piping where exposed will be additionally covered with a PVC jacket.

Chilled water piping will be insulated with fiberglass insulation. Chilled water piping runouts to fan coil units (maximum length of 5 foot) may be insulated with closed cell elastomeric foam insulation. Chilled water piping where exposed will be additionally covered with a PVC jacket.

Condensate drain piping, including floor drain traps where condensate is drained, will be insulated with fiberglass.

Heating water piping will be insulated with fiberglass insulation. Heating water piping where exposed will be additionally covered with a PVC jacket. Heating water piping runouts to fan coil units, air terminals, and unit heaters (maximum length of 5 foot) may be insulated with closed cell elastomeric foam insulation.

All insulation will comply with the minimum thickness and resistance value requirements established by the applicable energy code.

AUTOMATIC TEMPERATURE CONTROLS

The existing building control system will be reused, and any new equipment will be BACnet enabled, and brought into the existing control system.

TEST, ADJUST AND BALANCE

Testing, Adjusting, and Balancing (TAB) of the Air Distribution and Hydronic Systems will be provided by an independent, local TAB contractor. The TAB Contractor will adjust all water and airflow to the values indicated on the drawings.

MECHANICAL EQUIPMENT PLACEMENT

Refer to the attached mechanical sheets for approximate mechanical equipment locations

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LIST OF ASSUMPTIONS AND LIMITING FACTORS

SYSTEM DESIGN CONDITIONS

The proposed HVAC System design…