GMI converted a central steam heating plant at General Mitchell ARS to a decentralized, building-dedicated, heating system that encompassed 16 buildings covering 279,000 square feet. Engineers evaluated and developed appropriate system types for each building, using infrared heating and standalone hot water boilers, converting the distribution system, and upgrading HQ to a 4-pipe HVAC system. Concept development began in July 2002. All new systems were completely operational 16 months later.

Special points of interest:

• Completed design, procurement, construction and commissioning
• Worked within limits of predetermined budget
• Used best value procurement processes
• Selected pre-qualified subcontractors with input from owner
• Produced concept and construction drawings
• Conducted regular project meetings with owner and subcontractors
• Completed work while buildings occupied
• Managed project for results in 16 months and under budget
• Achieved over 35% reduction in natural gas consumption
• Experienced significant decrease in occupant complaints

GMI was contacted to perform energy auditing services for the Port Authority of San Antonio, specifically with regard to the existing steam plan. GMI evaluated several alternatives in-house during initial phases of the project and made recommendation to decentralize the heating system. The Port Authority of San Antonio chose to go forward with GMI's recommendations. GMI was awarded a design/build contract, including decentralizing the heating system and shutting down the central steam plant for seven buildings (2.1 million ft²). GMI guaranteed the energy and cost reduction projections from the energy audit by accepting a lower engineering design fee in exchange for a return payment based on meeting the energy reduction projections, plus additional performance fees for exceeding those projections. The design/build project included the installation of hot water boilers, pumps, piping distribution, steam boilers, gas-fired infrared heaters, and humidification systems. The project was completed and the results earned GMI the initial incentives as well as incentives for exceeding energy reduction goals.

GMI was contracted to provide design and construction services for a facility located at Westover Air Reserve Base. This facility mainly provides office space for base airmen within a central maintenance hangar. GMI designed all HVAC renovations, plumbing renovations, and lighting changes. GMI managed all phases of construction for the project, maintaining project schedule and budget.

GMI performed a design-build project to address HVAC and humidity control problems in the flight simulator building at Grissom ARB. To execute the work, GMI developed mechanical and electrical design drawings and specifications. The design included the replacement of an air handler, designing a new temperature control layout, and integrating the system to provide both heating and cooling. GMI coordinated with base personnel during the design phase to sequence/schedule construction work around scheduled maintenance shutdowns. GMI worked around numerous classified briefings that placed the building into unscheduled "lockdowns," requiring site personnel to vacate the building. Despite these challenges, GMI completed the project on schedule, with no disruption to the ongoing training schedule in the flight simulator bay and with zero safety incidents.

GMI performed a design-build project to install, repair and update the fire suppression systems within various facilities located across Minneapolis-St. Paul ARB, Minnesota. Specifically, GMI designed and performed repairs of the Pump House Fire Supply System in Building 804, the Hangar Fire Suppression System in Building 821, and Repair Fuel Cell Fire Suppression System in Building 870 to upgrade the systems to current building codes and standards, including ATFP and ADA requirements, as well as seismic resistance. GMI actively coordinated with the 934th Maintenance Group to minimize disruptions to base operations (aircraft maintenance activities).

GMI performed a design-build project to design and renovate Building 314 at Niagara ARS. Renovation included HVAC systems, lighting and power systems, plumbing system, and selective demolition of kitchen equipment. GMI completed the project on schedule and within budget.

GMI performed a design-build renovation project at Building 431 on Grissom ARB, Indiana. The project involved extensive interior and exterior demolition, asbestos removal, office renovations, construct storage rooms, including upgraded utilities/infrastructure. GMI directed multiple design disciplines, including structural, architectural, mechanical and electrical to upgrade this 8,800-ft² facility to comply with current codes and standards, including ATFP and ADA, enhance overall energy efficiency, as well as to provide additional office space in support of Family Readiness. Grissom ARB vacated the building to facilitate work execution. The building is located in close proximity to the flight line, requiring vigilance to keep the worksite clean and free of debris to avoid disruptions to flight operations.

GMI designed, managed the installation, and commissioned a new base-wide LAN-based HVAC energy management control system (EMCS) for 20 buildings at Dobbins ARB, Georgia. The intent of the new system was to increase occupant comfort while decreasing energy and operational costs. The new control system replaced many pneumatic and electric control systems on air handlers, chilled water systems, and hot water systems. Five of the buildings in the project had existing direct digital control systems that were integrated into the new EMCS. GMI worked closely with the base's operations staff to ensure that the field installation and front-end (user interface) was suitable for their use. GMI fully commissioned the EMCS, which included a point-by-point check, sequence of operation verification and modification. As part of the commissioning process, several mechanical system operational issues were identified and resolved.