Site location and considerations

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For new facilities to be located on a ‘green space’ property or one that will have existing buildings demolished for the new facility, site location and the associated requirements of the new facility must be accounted for.  Some examples of information that needs to be  considered:

Site Constraints

• Surveys
• Zoning
• Right-of-way dedication
• Easements & covenant

Site Investigation and documentation

• Available geo-technical report
• Environmental assessment
• Existing utility capacity
• Historical or archeological significance

Governmental Constraints and Opportunities

• Is a comprehensive plan in place?
• Traffic capacity
• Entities requiring design review
• Taxes and fees

New facility attributes

Most new buildings and additions have unique features that are required for them to meet the functional expectations of their owner.  These features can affect such items as length of construction, the need for special building codes, local city / county permitting, etc.  It is important that these be identified early in the process so as to be accounted for during the project’s design.  Some examples of these features:

• Manufacturing equipment
• Special ventilation needs
• Increased water / sewer capacity
• Increased electrical service
• Required site drainage retention
• Oversized foundations / footings
• Special wall / floor coverings

Timelines for design and construction completion

If the project has a set completion date due to outside influences such as the arrival of special equipment, existing facility lease expiration, etc., the Contractor and Design team need to be aware of the circumstances.  This allows for necessary adjustments to the design and construction schedules, adjustments for construction of the project, and helps minimize unexpected costs to the project.

Identify long lead time items

Special equipment, materials, and transportation delays have all factored into increased construction and shipping schedules that can affect progress at the jobsite.  Basic items such as pre-engineered metal buildings, cement, heating & air units, and others may experience delays for different reasons. A delay in a particular piece of equipment or construction material will impact additional project elements as well.  It is important that the Contractor and Design Team are aware of all characteristics of the project so that any possible delays can be accounted for.