Flight Crew Training Facility

As the engineer of record for the addition and renovations of Peterson Space Force Base’s Flight Crew Training Facility, CMTA provided mechanical, electrical, plumbing, communication, and design phase commissioning services for the 12,326 SF facility.

With two building additions, this SRM (Sustainment, Restoration, Modernization) project posed challenges beyond typical renovations. First, the facility needed to remain operational throughout the construction phase, so our team developed a strategic phased construction sequence to minimize disruption. Additionally, uncertainty about funding for both the new construction and renovation phases required a design that allowed either one to function independently. Finally, aligning the project with the budget required careful decision-making to balance needs against wants.

CMTA challenged conventional thinking by making tough decisions that kept the project on budget. For instance, despite the existing electrical system approaching the end of its theoretical lifespan, our tests showed it was still in good condition. By assessing the health and longevity of the existing gear during design, we determined that keeping the electrical service while replacing the breakers would be a reasonable decision, given budget constraints. We also included a bid option to replace the gear if we received favorable bids. This choice not only improved constructability and eased the phasing sequence but also saved approximately $300k-$500k, allowing those funds to be reallocated to other areas of the project.

CMTA also challenged strict compliance with the Telecommunications UFC 3-580-01, noting that the existing space did not meet the minimum 8’x10’ space requirements. However, through collaboration with both the end users and the Peterson SFB communications team, we determined that the existing closet met the needs of the space. Our RCDD team confirmed that the existing active equipment could accommodate both the additions and the renovations. Obtaining a variance on this UFC helped control costs and allowed the team to reallocate funds to other more essential features of the project.

Finally, CMTA designed an 18-well geothermal HVAC system with a Dedicated Outdoor Air System (DOAS). Contrary to traditional thinking, this solution was the most cost-effective due to its superior energy efficiency and minimal footprint, which facilitated seamless integration into the existing structure. Additionally, the innovative system streamlined the construction sequencing process. A secondary benefit is its zero-carbon emission performance, aligning with the trajectory toward environmental responsibility.