Judicial Law Center Renovation

Originally built in 1941, Building 219 was a two-story brick, open-bay barracks and one of the oldest remaining facilities at Cherry Point Marine Corps Air Station in Havelock, North Carolina. The post-World War II, 23,575 square feet, was outdated, insufficient, and lacked ADA accessibility. Although this building was renovated for a ‘temporary’ Law Center in 1993, it did not have adequate spaces to meet the current needs of the Judicial Law Center.

The Marines wanted DJG to bring elegance and style back to the building, as well as completely renovate the existing structure with new mechanical and electrical systems, meet Anti-Terrorism Force Protection (ATFP) federal guidelines, and make the building accessible and functional. The existing layout did not have private offices and defendants were not separated from the prosecutors.

DJG facilitated a three-day charrette to refine:
• The project scope and space needs
• Identify functional, technical, and special requirements for the project
• Develop and refine concept plans for the facility that are in conformance with installation standards
• Revise and validate the cost estimate

Through this process, DJG familiarized ourselves with the space needs requirements of the various divisions, installation guidelines, project site features, and utilities.

DJG then designed and prepared construction documents for the facility’s required complete interior and exterior renovation. The plan incorporated ADA and life safety requirements while reconfiguring the court room, offices, restrooms, building access and security. DJG designed a new hole-less hydraulic elevator within the existing footprint of the facility to provide access to the second floor. The interior finishes included new doors, floor coverings, ceilings, wall surfaces and window shades.

A new HVAC system, lighting with occupancy sensors, sprinkler system, and an addressable fire alarm system were incorporated into the existing building envelope. Exterior doors and windows were replaced with modern energy efficient models and the exterior egress stairs were replaced. The exterior brick was cleaned and re-pointed. DJG added a new main entrance and new exterior egress stairs. This provided a clear entrance to the building, which it currently lacks and make the building accessible for all patrons.

Site work for this project included redesigning the north parking lot to increase stand-off distance, providing Anti-Terrorism Force Protection (ATFP) barriers, improving accessibility, and new landscaping. Other force-protection measures included decorative bollards and faux-brick-clad concrete security barriers. Landscaping was provided to enhance the main entrance, with canopy trees selected to match existing, and low-maintenance shrubs, grasses, and ground covers arranged to create an entrance space.

DJG won a Merit Award for Engineering Excellence through ACEC VA for this project.