Project Blade

Summarize the project's program, features and achievements?

This project required the installation of exceptionally heavy panels, weighing approximately 250,000 pounds. To handle the immense weight of these components, we had to bring in a large crane from out of state. The use of this specialized heavy equipment was necessary to successfully complete the installation.

What obstacles were overcome related to the schedule, budget, program, specification, site, etc. on this project?

One of the key obstacles was coordinating the installation of the helical piers, which required specialized contractors to fly in from out-of-state. These installers had to travel to the site, install the piers, then fly back out after the panels were erected. This process had to be repeated multiple times throughout the project. The use of out-of-state helical pier installers presented logistical challenges, as their travel and scheduling had to be carefully coordinated to align with the panel installation timeline. The need to fly these specialized crews in and out of the site multiple times added complexity and time to this aspect of the project.

Please communicate any engineering complexities or unique features of the panel design for this project?

On this particular project, we were not permitted to remove any of the bracing elements until the entire roof system was 100% complete. Typically, we are able to remove the braces immediately after the steel erection passes inspection. However, for this project, the engineer required us to wait until the full roof installation was finished before taking down the bracing.

This presented an unusual constraint compared to standard practice. Normally, we can start removing the temporary bracing as soon as the core steel framing is approved. But for this job, the engineer wanted to ensure the roof was fully in place and structurally stable before allowing the braces to be taken out. This added an extra step and delay in the construction timeline that we don't usually encounter.

What is the potential for this project's impact on the community and/or environment?

We believe this project will have a positive impact on the local community by creating thousands of new job opportunities across a variety of positions. The strategic location of the project near the airport should also improve efficiency and provide better service to consumers. The influx of new jobs that this development will bring to the area is an exciting prospect. The range of positions required for a project of this scale should offer employment prospects for a diverse set of skill levels and backgrounds within the community. This boost in local employment has the potential to significantly benefit the regional economy.

Furthermore, the proximity to the airport is an advantageous factor. This convenient location should enhance the delivery of goods and services to consumers, making the overall experience more efficient and accessible. The improved logistics enabled by the project's airport-adjacent setting is an additional community benefit.

Overall, we are optimistic that this project will have a constructive influence on the local area by generating substantial new job opportunities and enhancing service capabilities through its strategic placement near the airport.