Johnson College Bracey Hall

The team at L.R. Costanzo (LRC) oversaw the construction of a 5,000-square-foot addition to Johnson College’s HVAC Department, effectively doubling the size of their existing facilities. This new space includes open, well-lit laboratory areas, traditional classrooms, offices, a tool room, and utility spaces. It’s designed to provide students with hands-on learning opportunities by simulating real-world construction scenarios using the equipment and materials they’ll encounter in their careers. The addition enhances the College’s ability to train the next generation of HVAC professionals in a dynamic, industry-relevant environment.

• Encountering unsuitable soils due to previous development of the site
• Adding to an existing in-use building
• Expanding an existing Pre-Engineered Metal Building (PEMB)
• Requiring an improved thermal envelop for the building due to updated energy codes

• Performed a geotechnical investigation, including test borings, to assess a mine tunnel 25 feet below the building. Over-excavated and replaced the soils beneath the footings with structural fill stone for stability
• Partial demolition and sitework were completed during the summer, with critical activities scheduled around school breaks to minimize disruption to HVAC classes. The building served as a “live lab,” allowing Johnson College students to observe construction at various stages
• Collaborated with designers and PEMB engineers to modify the end wall and structure adding new bays that aligned with the existing layout. The addition’s profile and finishes were carefully chosen to seamlessly blend with the original construction for a cohesive look
• Worked with designers and PEMB installers to add deeper insulation layers in the roof and walls for improved energy efficiency. Additionally, the chiller coolant was updated to a more sustainable type to meet code requirements