To expedite completion and mitigate weather-related delays or damage, ARCO implemented several proactive solutions such as snow, frost, and frozen soil removal and remediation, concrete admixtures and curing blankets, and the use of cold weather paint and caulk products. Temporary generators and heating equipment, including covering of man doors, windows, overhead doors, and dock positions, were also utilized for the entire building so work could continue prior to permanent utility installation. This also allowed for material handling systems and conveyance systems to begin installation at an earlier date.

ARCO also panelized structural steel onsite and implemented a center coring approach in which the center portion of the steel structure is in place prior to tilt-wall erection. While it required additional coordination, access logistics, and safety measures, it allowed for acceleration of the building dry-in and overall project schedule.

Additionally, to increase the speed at which work was completed, increased crew sizes for various trades were utilized, and construction activities were completed outside of typical hours, including evenings and weekends.

On a broad scale, ARCO clients benefit from our design-build delivery from both a cost and schedule standpoint, as our integrated approach and work in the proposal phase consistently result in the most functional solution and tremendous time savings. Because of ongoing market disruptions and material procurement issues, for the Scannell Properties project, ARCO’s design-build delivery was especially beneficial.

With preliminary design completed internally during the proposal phase, immediately upon project award, we were able to begin full design and buyout simultaneously. This combined with our national buying power also allowed us to purchase long lead time materials, such as structural steel, roofing, HVAC equipment, mechanical equipment, electrical switchgear, and dock equipment well before mobilization, resulting in significant overall schedule savings.