Key Highlights / Scope of Work
Cox Mechanical partnered on the construction of a new 370,000 sq. ft., 11-story core and shell life science building. The project included four belowgrade parking levels equipped with gas monitoring systems and exhaust/supply fans to maintain air quality, two dedicated mechanical floors, and a mechanical roof supporting all building systems.
Scope of work included complete mechanical system installation and commissioning, featuring a boiler system and a 2,000-ton chiller plant with (3) York chillers and (4) Marley cooling towers. The air-handling systems delivered 660,000 CFM of supply air and 330,000 CFM of exhaust air and featured a Konvekta energy recovery system, water-source heat pumps serving IDF and elevator machine rooms, a heat recovery chiller and air-towater heat pump for managing shoulderseason loads. There were also two stair pressurization units to maintain life safety standards.
Challenges Faced
Complex MEP coordination was required across all trades within a tightly packed schedule and limited spatial footprint. Commissioning was further complicated by seasonal variability in building loads. Additional challenges included real-time modifications to control sequences to adapt to changing on-site conditions, as well as cost and scheduling impacts from COVID-19 — including material price escalations and extended lead times.
Solutions and Innovations
Cox implemented significant prefabrication strategies, which reduced on-site congestion, improved safety, and increased overall installation efficiency.
Results / Outcomes
Through strong collaboration across trades and effective field leadership, the project was successfully delivered on time and on budget, meeting all performance and quality expectations.
