b'74 BWI OPERATIONS In addition to updated aesthetics, thePHOTO: ARMSTRONG WORLD INDUSTRIESconcourse features a more energy-efficient HVAC system working behind the scenes. Precision Planning tune the desired lamp temperatures and dimming levels of the To minimize the projects impact on operations and passengers,fixtures, he recalls. Quite a bit of work went into getting it right.significant planning went into creating a precise timeline forThe project required the integration of nearly 850 new each phase of the ceiling replacement and installation of HVAClight fixtures. Lighting throughout the concourse is wired to terminal units and rooftop equipment. Most work was scheduleddedicated controls so airport personnel can easily adjust overnight, after flight activity stopped. But that period is onlylighting levels. For example, as direct sunlight varies throughout about four hours at BWI. Crews accomplished as much asthe seasons, levels in select areas can be adjusted to possible during their small windows of opportunity, and thencompensate, without affecting lights elsewhere. Upgrading from had to return the space in usable, safe and secure condition byfluorescent to LED lighting was important in terms of energy morning. Ensuring safety and security while minimizing noise andsavings, but also created a brighter, calmer space that met dust were paramount, Shank emphasizes.current code requirements, Hensel adds.With the various aspects of the project so intertwined,Crews were restricted to opening only 2,500 square feet collaboration and coordination were critical from design throughof ceiling at a time because of fire codes, and the team constructiona dynamic that underscored the importanceworked with the Fire Marshals Office to schedule intermittent of the teams formal partnership agreement. Placement ofshutdowns of the sprinkler system to replace sprinkler heads. the ceiling panels around electrical infrastructure, speakers,This planning and careful phasing allowed the project to cameras, fire suppression and signagemove efficiently, Hensel reports. The way it was broken down had to be carefully considered. It wasand the percentage the workers could do in each phase, a lot of visits to check above the ceiling,that contributed to the success, she elaborates. Setting the and a lot of coordination meetings withinstandard for design and clear expectations for each phase was all disciplines to ensure that there werentanother key factor, she adds.any conflicts with relocating items, says George Steinrock, aviation lead withManaging the project through a global pandemic proved JMT. To me, that was one of the biggestchallenging from a supply chain perspective, Shank adds. GEORGE STEINROCKchallenges.Equipment lead times were a big issue, and theyre still a Pre-construction design work and mockups allowed thebig issue for other airport projects, he says. Its the biggest team to test different lamp temperatures to achieve the bestproblem we have. comfort level for individual holdrooms and the concourses,However, that didnt prevent the Concourse D project from says Steinrock. The team was out there several nights to fine- finishing on schedule. September 2023AirportImprovement.com'