THE UNIVERSITY OF FLORIDA - STEPHAN C. O ...facilities.ufl.edu/prjdocs/00003082.pdfAdditional wall graphics are recommended to add more “life” to the space. The men’s basketball

Renovation StudyPOPULOUS

THE UNIVERSITY OF FLORIDA - STEPHAN C. O’CONNELL CENTEREXISTING FACILITY CONDITION ASSESSMENT

University of Florida Facility Condition Assessment O’Connell Center

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INTERIORS AND OPERATIONS EVENT REVIEW Interiors – Service Level/Locker and Training Spaces The condition of the interior finishes of the service level corridors, offices, locker rooms and event production spaces are in fair condition for a facility of this age. The spaces have a neutral pallet as it relates to color scheme and lack vibrancy. The director stated that the facility is a multipurpose venue that serves multiple constituencies other than sports and therefore did not large amounts of sports branding is undesirable. That being said there is opportunity to enhance the user experience by adding additional colors and graphic to corridors and rooms. The dressing rooms, although serviceable, could be enhanced with more modern vanities and enhanced color schemes. The auxiliary locker rooms can be improved by removing the metal lockers and adding color. The training rooms are serviceable but lack vibrancy. Since these rooms are sports specific more sports specific graphics may be appropriate.

The loading area consists of one ramp and one dock which make the load in and out of concerts slow. The building manager would like an improved VIP/team/player entrance which currently is through the loading dock.

This is a dressing room. There is a series of four dressing rooms with furniture and vanity that lack vitality and energy.


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The hallway from the loading dock to the floor and on left side hand is the facility manager/operation offices. Several of the offices have more than one person as staff has increased from 8 to 15 full-time employees in recent years. Additional office space should be addressed as part of the renovation.

This is the “martial arts” room. It is a multipurpose room that is used for media, dining, productions offices for concerts.

The hallway leading out the “martial arts” room lacks vitality. Additional wall graphics are recommended to add more “life” to the space.

The men’s basketball training room is dated and should be addressed as a part of the renovation plan.


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Men’s basketball meeting room that is in good condition.

The men’s locker room is in good condition for 10 years old but is dated.

An auxiliary locker room that is used as the women’s visiting locker room on basketball game days. Consideration should be given to replacing the metal lockers with wood or laminate lockers.

The storage room that handles the basketball and volleyball floor, some courtside signage is well organized.


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The auxiliary locker room for the visiting men’s basketball team, visiting volleyball team and the visiting gymnastics team is dated.

This is the gymnastics locker room is in fair condition.

The gymnastic lounge is a converted meeting room and that meets the current needs of the program.

The conference room for gymnastics meets the current needs of the program.


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The women’s training area for gymnastics, women’s basketball, and volleyball is dated but meets the current needs of the individual programs. Enhanced graphics would make this space more appealing.

The women’s home locker room is shared with volleyball on game days and meets the needs for each program. Each program has their own practice facility with nicer locker rooms.


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This is the weight room that opens to all students and faculty staff for athletics and is a converted class room.

Arena Bowl The configuration of the seating bowl with floor and mid-level retractable riser systems provides the flexibility for large scale trade and exhibit events. The floor is utilized for basketball camps and can accommodate 3 full sized courts. The mid-level rider system in its fully stored position reveals a running track and significant floor space for trade shows. These events are a significant portion of the facility’s non-sports related revenue. The facility manager understands the need to enhance revenue for athletics by incorporating more premium seating options but would like to maintain the current flexibility to do other revenue generating non-sporting events. The existing rigging grid is rated to service 100,000 LBS of show rigging and 25,000 of center hung scoreboard. Currently, in bowl video is delivered via 4 video and ribbon board panels mounted on the fascia in the corners of the bowl. The reason that the center hung option has not been employed is the steep geometry of the bowl that leaves the lower bowl retractables with poor sightlines to a center hung board.


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Rigging grid is rated at 100,000 pounds and center hung speaker sound system. Video boards are in the corners because due to the poor sightlines for a center hung board.


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Mid-level seating that can be stored to provide floor space expo and trade show events.

Video panels outside the Gate 3 entrance.

Internal concourse next to Sections D and E near Gate 3.

Men’s restroom inside Gates 3 and 4 inside the bowl re in good condition but have high rates of water flow.


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The elevators at Gate 1 and Gate 4 allows for access to the upper level for accessible seating right. Based on the new ADAAG the facility is compliant.

The production area, which used to be a press area in the upper bowl, is utilized to monitor sound and video.


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The current configuration allows for flexibility for basketball camps and trade show and exhibit events.

Interiors – Concourses The main concourse of which there are four entry points distributes patrons around a series of spaces that do not allow for 360 degree circulation. This does not appear to be a problem for most events but does cause issues for sold out men’s basketball games and commencement ceremonies. The tensa-berries mounted in the floor at each gate should be removed to improve egress from the facility along with the turnstiles. Turnstiles only provide an impediment and are considered passé for arenas due to utilization of ticket scanners. The concession stands are small and likely do not provide the necessary point of sale ratios required to service fans in a timely manner, 1 minute per transaction. Several of the stands, at Gate 1, have been improved but many others need graphics and menu upgrading.


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Gate 1 with tensa-barriers and they still use turnstiles even though they utilize hand held scanners. Most arenas have eliminated the use of turnstiles. Gate 1 is the most utilized gate for events and many times the only gate that is open. For commencement they open all 4 gates.

Main concourse signage at Gate 1. The university wants the facility to be a “university” facility and not just sports so they are sensitive to over branding the facility with sports.

Gymnastics studio limits concourse circulation.

Concession stands outside of Gate 1 with limited branding.


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Inside of concession stand outside of Gate 1 with recently upgraded graphics.

Concessions stands next to Gate 1 that needs a graphics upgrade.


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This is the east side concourse with no graphics and directional signage.

Sink in the family restroom on the east side of the building with a high flow rate. Aerators would help reduce water consumption on sinks.

Gate 2, which is not open on every event, has limited graphics.

Gate 2 with limited graphics and directional signage.


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This is one stand of two that is in the lobby of Gate 2 that are small with poor graphics.

The men’s restroom right near Gate 1 with urinals that are ½ gallons and lavatories at 1.6 gallon.


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The natatorium inside the O’Connell Center emanates chlorine filled air into the other spaces of the facility. The air is eating away at door hardware, lighting fixtures and technology components in the facility.

Gate 3 entry and the lobby area are only open for commencement and for men’s basketball. For everything else, it is closed.


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The basketball practice facility on the concourse between Gates 3 and 4 limits circulation between those gates. This is a multipurpose area that is original to the construction and is now it is being used by ROTC and is also used for banquets.

Exterior The exterior of the facility was observed to be in fair condition but is non-descript and lacks any sense of vibrancy. There is nothing that invites the guest into the facility which could be attained with a glass atrium lobby with a hall of fame. This would not only enhance the experience of the guest at O’Connell Center events but could be utilized before home football games to support additional tailgating or “fan fest” activities. The exterior at Gate 3 exhibited signs of subsidence of the concrete and where aggregate is loosening due to wear and tear of the sidewalk.


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The exterior at Gate 4 is in good condition.

Outside of Gate 1, the main entrance, there are five ticket windows on the right side and four on the left. The four on the left hand side are not used very often. Facility management would like more windows on this side of Gate 1.

Outside of Gate 2 this area is used for tailgating on football game days for tailgating.


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MECHANICAL, ELECTRICAL AND PLUMBING REVIEW This assessment report is based on findings from a September 22, 2011 visit to the facility as well a review of the existing building drawings provided, discussions with University of Florida personnel.

The O’Connell center is a 30 year old building along with the HVAC systems. To exasperate the situation a 640,000 gallon pool is located in the building and directly communicates with the rest of the building volume. The chlorine in the air and excessive humidity level has contributed to an extensive amount of rust and pipe corrosion throughout the entire facility. All building hydronic piping, insulation, valves, and connections need to be replaced in their entirety.

The air handling units serving the building are old and energy inefficient. In addition, the two (2) large air handling units restrict the number of zones that serve the building affecting building comfort. A more modern air handling unit system would drastically reduce the amount of energy consumed and add the number of controllable zones making for a more comfortable environment.

Before any changes are made to the air handling unit system the pool and pool area must be addressed. The walls around the pool need to be extended so the pool area is removed from the rest of the building. At the same time the system serving this area needs to be engineered to control the pressure and air changes in the room. Once this issue is addressed the rest of the building systems can be revised and updated.

The bowl air handling units need to be updated with more modern technology including an energy reclamation system. The air handling units need to be revised so they serve the bowl only. This will allow for a more comfortable game/practice environment and save energy at the same time. When an event is not taking place the bowl temperature should be set back to conserve energy allowing the bowl air to stratify.

The service level spaces should be served by several large VAV type units. This will allow for more zone control and save energy as each space can be turned down based on occupancy. New exhaust systems need to be installed and make-up air can be transferred from the bowl.

Each specialized zone on the concourse needs to be served by a dedicated unit. This will allow for better comfort in the space and save energy by not heating previously cooled air.

The smoke control system needs to be analyzed as a whole should any changes be made to the arena. In addition, any new air handling units need to be tied into the smoke control system so the system can work automatically under any mode (bowl, concourse, pyrotechnic, or normal).

The control system needs to be evaluated to make sure that all new system are integrated and can be controlled through the campus system and should be programmed with setback and non-occupied schedules.

The existing building plumbing system consists of a 4” city water service, and (1) 8” sanitary force main.

The existing building has a wet pipe automatic fire sprinkler system and fire booster pump. There is also an existing automatic and manual voice evacuation fire alarm system throughout the building.

The existing building electrical system consists of a 4160V loop feed providing power to the facility at separate unit substations located at the NE and SW corners of the building. The service is transformed down to 277/480V electrical distribution system at each corner and provides power for fluorescent and HID lighting, equipment motors and other medium to large loads within the arena. The power is stepped down further to 208/120V distribution to feed receptacles and incandescent lighting throughout the facility. Some of the areas served include the main basketball arena, locker rooms, natatorium, gymnastics area, dance studio, press areas, and concessions areas.


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The building currently has a dual electric service and redundancy through a main-tie-main configuration of the two existing Unit Substations #1 & #2. The two 1000 kVA service transformers and related service entrance laterals are a minimum of 30 years old. Without maintenance records or testing, an opinion of the condition of the electrical equipment cannot be confirmed but there was evidence of corrosion on the surfaces of the housings that could be a result of the strong chlorine fumes that are prevalent throughout the arena.

Emergency power for the building is also provided by a 30 plus year old 400 KW indoor backup generator located on the service level for exit and egress lighting, fire alarm system, fire and jockey pumps, smoke evacuation system and at least one elevator. The generator appears to be in good working order however condition cannot be confirmed without maintenance records or testing. The transfer switch and related distribution panelboard are located in the Unit Substation #1 lineup at the NE corner of the arena.

It is recommended that if the electrical distribution equipment is to continue in use, that it be tested and serviced by a qualified electrical controls company to ensure safety and proper operation. Since this aged equipment is nearing end of useful life, consideration should be given to complete replacement with new electrical equipment utilizing current technologies thereby extending useful life for many years.

HVAC

A 10” chilled water supply and return line enters the arena on the East side. The lines are provided from the university central plant and run under the outside air tunnel where they enter into the East Mechanical Room. The chilled water runs to three (3) tertiary chilled water pumps located adjacent to the East air handling unit. The three pumps are Bell & Gossett split case double suction floor mounted pumps. The pumps are original to the building and are roughly 30 years old. The pump bodies were covered with insulation but the motors seemed to be in good working condition.

Chilled water is provided by USF at 44 degrees F entering water temperature and 62 degrees F leaving water temperature. It is assumed at this time that these temperatures are accurate per today’s standards U of F standards. Per the plans an 8” line circulates the arena at the Service Level with 944 GMP of water. The chilled water pipe throughout the O’Connell Center appears to be rusted in a majority of locations where piping is exposed, especially at the valves, test ports, and pipe connections. At 30 years of age the chilled water piping needs to be replaced. In addition to the chilled water piping the insulation needs to be replaced as a majority of the insulation is ripped, torn, deteriorated, or wet.

HVAC Picture 1 – Chilled Water Tertiary Pumps


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HVAC Picture 2 – Rusted Chilled Water Pipe and Deteriorated Insulation

HVAC Picture 3 – Rusted Shut Off Valve at AHUU

A 6” high pressure steam line and 2” steam condensate return line enter and leave the building at the Southeast corner of the building. Once high pressure steam enters the arena it runs through a series of pressure reducing valves located in the pool storage and equipment room. The incoming steam pressure cannot be verified at this time but local gauges indicated that the low pressure steam is approximately 15 pounds. The room has several condensate receivers and pump that take condensate back to the central plant. The receivers and pumps look aged and need to be replaced.

Low pressure steam is used at three separate heat exchangers. The first is to heat the pool, the second is for domestic water, and the third is for building heating water. The tube and shell heating water heat exchanger is approximately 30 years old and is most likely rusted through. The unit is encased in insulation and was unverifiable at the time of the observation. The domestic heating water systems has a 60 gallon expansion tank and two (2) heating water circulators and are Bell & Gossett pumps at 135 GPM each. The heating water system is controlled through pump differential. Heating water is distributed to the large air handling units and several smaller coils on the Service Level. The heating water pipe throughout the O’Connell Center seems to be rusted in a majority of locations where piping is exposed, especially at the valves, test ports, and pipe connections. At 30 years of age the heating water piping needs to be replaced. In addition to the heating water piping the insulation needs to be replaced as a majority of the insulation is ripped, torn, deteriorated, or wet.

Located in the middle of the room is a large pool filtration system. The equipment in this room is forced in and does not have adequate clearance. In addition to needing replacement the equipment should be laid out in a manner that allows for easier access and maintenance.


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HVAC Picture 4 – Deteriorated Steam Insulation

HVAC Picture 5 – Rusted Valves on Heating Water Piping

The arena bowl, arena concourse, service level, gymnastic area, practice court, and dance areas are all served by the two large air handling units located in the East and West mechanical levels. The existing air handling units were constructed in the late 70’s and have approximately 200,000 CFM of capacity each. During design the air handling units were sized to not only condition the building but to inflate the one time inflatable roof. The air handling units are built-up units and are the full size of the existing mechanical room. The units draw outside air through two large air grates located on the exterior arena berm on the West and East side of the building. The outside air is ducted to the units thru a concrete area way running above the units in their respective mechanical room. Return air is ducted from the louvers on the lower arena wall across the service level corridor directly to the room. Supply air leaves the unit and runs through a concrete duct to large masonry tubes that connect to the concrete duct. The masonry supply tube runs vertically through the entries and provides supply air to the entries and concourse spaces. Separate ducts are taken from the masonry supply tube at the concourse level. The main duct continues vertically through the arena where it terminates in a 3-pronged diffuser that lets air dump to the upper bowl patrons.

The leaving air temperature from the bowl air handling unit is approximately 55 degrees F. Each unit has two supply fans with constant volume air supply.

The built up air handling units are outdated, over-sized, and inefficient. Since the entire facility (minus the pool) is served by these units additional energy is being used where it doesn’t need to be. The facility is utilized daily and to maintain temperature the main units run constantly. This is a poor strategy that wastes fan energy as air is distributed throughout the facility whether it is needed or not. To amplify the situation the fans are oversized resulting in more wasted energy.

The air handling units need to be replaced for several reasons; age of equipment, constant volume nature, outdated technology, and inability to shut off conditioning to different portions of the arena.


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HVAC Picture 6 – Rusted cooling coil on bowl AHU

A portion of the service level is served by chilled and heating water coils. The original drawings do not indicate any fans attached with the coils but several large in-line centrifugal fans were present during the observation. The fans seem to be constant volume with a local zone thermostat in the most thermally critical space served. The coils are located in the supply air tunnel off of the main air handling units. A majority of the piping running to these coils has missing insulation. This is a benefit in cooling mode but reduces the efficiency of the heating water system. Condensation was evident in the drain pans which seemed to be clogged and almost completely rusted through. Having stagnant water in the supply air tunnel serving the building is definitely not ideal. There is a strong possibility of mold growth or other pollutants transmitting through the rest of the building via the supply air distribution system. In addition, the coils and fans are extremely difficult to access and maintain. It is in the best interest of the facility to remove the fans, coils, and hydronic piping from the supply air tunnels and install new equipment dedicated to the area it will serve.

HVAC Picture 7 – Chilled & Heating Water Coils in Supply Tunnel

The pool at the South end of the building is served by two (2) dedicated, 4-pipe, AHU’s. Each unit has approximately 45 tons of cooling capacity at 15,225 CFM with an air side economizer. Each unit obtains outside air through an underground concrete duct adjacent to the exterior pool. Air is distributed overhead at the pool and returns through a large louver into the mechanical room where the AHU is located. The equipment serving the pool room is approximately 30 years old and has significant rust damage. Several leaks in the hydronic piping are present that should be addressed with new piping.

One of the challenges at the O’Connell Center is the indoor pool and the relationship to the rest of the arena and adjacent spaces. Currently, the pool is open to the rest of the facility. As chlorine laden water evaporates from the surface of the pool it is transmitted through the rest of the arena. The pool evaporation increases the humidity level in the arena and also allows chlorine to reach spaces where it creates rust on exposed metal. This includes all ductwork, piping, valving, diffusers, door hardware, and electronics. In addition to the effect on the metal the chlorine gives an overall odor to the building.


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Fixing the chlorine issue isn’t easy but it can be accomplished. Holistically the building pressure needs to be addressed but most importantly the pool must be completely closed off from the rest of the arena through the use of a non-porous barrier. This includes any openings at both the service and concourse levels. Once closed off, the pressure, air distribution, and number of air changes at the pool will need to be addressed. Most of these changes can be accomplished with new mechanical units designed to contain the chlorine off-gassed from the pool and control the humidity level.

HVAC Picture 8 – U of F Pool in the O’Connell Center

HVAC Picture 9 – Outside Air Intake for Pool AHU’s

HVAC Picture 10 – Chilled & Heated Water Piping @ Pool AHU’s


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The locker rooms on the service level have a minimum level of exhaust. It doesn’t seem an adequate air transfer system exists as the rooms seem to be under strong negative pressure. To meet current code all spaces in the arena need to be analyzed to determine if the correct amount of outside and exhaust air are being provided. Most likely certain spaces need to be rezoned so that humidity and pressure levels can be adequately controlled.

The gymnastics area, practice court, and dance studio are served with constant 55 degree F air provided by the main AHU’s. Many of the spaces have supplemental electric radiant heat to temper the air in the winter months. This type of control is energy inefficient as you have to pay to cool the air and then pay to heat it back up. These zones need to have volume control so the quantity of air can be controlled reducing the amount, if any, reheat is required.

HVAC Picture 11 – Practice Court w/ Supplemental Electric Heat

The ticket offices on the exterior of the concourse are served by small ductless split systems. The condensing units are located in the concourse level. Heat from these units is rejected to the concourse where the load is picked up by the main arena

units. While not a large load this is energy inefficient as the load has to be handled twice. It is advised that any air cooled equipment be located exterior to the building and/or handled by water cooled condensers where the load doesn’t have to be accounted for by the air systems.

HVAC Picture 12 – Air Cooled Condensers in the Concourse

Air is disbursed at two locations in the arena. The first area is at the concourse level and the second is high at the top of the bowl. Both systems have limited air disbursement and impact the visual aspect of the arena. In lieu of these systems it is advised to do a distributed ductwork system around the upper ring of the bowl. The concourse air disbursement can be removed as well as the round insert ducts connecting into the masonry supply column. The liner in the masonry tubes should be inspected but most likely needs to be replaced with new liner.


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HVAC Picture 13 – Upper Bowl Air Distribution

A smoke control system for the building was added in 2003. The system has 16 fans at 14,000 CFM each for a total of 224,000 CFM of concourse exhaust. It is assumed the system is compliant for the entire building. Regardless, an overall analysis will be needed to determine if the system is compliant should any changes to occupancy be made. At this time it isn’t possible to tell if the system is utilized for pyrotechnics mode. Should renovations be made the building should be analyzed on a holistic nature to determine the best code approach. The smoke exhaust fans looked to be in good condition and should definitely be considered for re-use.

Original building controls were pneumatic. The controls have been updated since the building opening and are now electronic, provided by Johnson Controls. VFD’s have been added throughout the building in an attempt to reduce energy and for improved control the system. It is assumed that the control system is connected to the campus system and all appear to be in good condition.

Plumbing

A single 4” domestic water line supplies the facility from a 6” city water main into the west side fan room of the building at approximately 46 PSIG. University personnel report no issues regarding the domestic water pressure inside the building. One 3” water meter measures the amount water used by the facility. No pressure reducing valves were observed on the domestic water supply serving the facility. In addition, no backflow preventers were observed either inside or outside the building to protect the city water supply. The potential lack of backflow prevention needs to be verified with the city code officials.

Plumbing Picture 1 – Domestic Water Meter


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Domestic cold water is distributed throughout the facility via un-insulated copper pipes. Copper pipe has a life expectancy of approximately 50 years. The lines that were installed as part of the initial building construction should have another 20 years of service before they may need to be replaced. Where the water lines are routed in the supply air tunnels the insulation appears to be damaged from moisture and should be replaced.

Plumbing Picture 2 – Domestic Water Pipes at Air Supply Tunnel

The domestic hot water is supplied within the facility by a steam fired domestic water heater located in the pool equipment room. It appears to be part of the initial building construction 30 years ago and consists of a single steam to water shell and tube heat exchanger with no storage tank. Although no problems were reported by facility personnel, since it is at the end of its life expectancy, we would recommend that the steam fired domestic water heater be replaced by a new steam fired domestic water heater. Although no issues have been reported, an expansion tank should be installed to prevent hot water from backing up into the cold water system.

Plumbing Picture 3 – Domestic Water Heater

The hot water from this system is distributed at 115 degree F to the various users at each of the two floors via a recirculated system. The domestic hot water is supplied to these systems via insulated copper pipe. Areas such as the Gate 1 & Gate 2 public restrooms are not supplied with domestic hot water. Copper pipe has a life expectancy of approximately 50 years. The lines that were installed as part of the initial building construction and should have another 20 years of service before it may need to be replaced.

A pumped sanitary waste and vent system serves the facility and serves the restrooms, locker rooms, concessions, pool and condensate from the facility. The main sanitary waste is pumped with a duplex sewage ejector (Lift Station #44) located in the pool equipment room. Two self-priming centrifugal 15 hp pumps set up in a lead/lag configuration are installed and appear original to the building and to be functioning properly. The aboveground sanitary waste and vent system is


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constructed of both hubless cast iron and PVC. The cast iron pipe appeared to be in good condition and may have 30 more years of life before it will need to be replaced. The lifespan of PVC is not proven beyond 30 years and although it is likely newer, it may be nearing the end of its lifespan. It is recommended that the system be investigated with a pipeline inspection camera before making a final determination. There is no onsite waste treatment. A separate sewage ejector located in the pool equipment room serves the pool and although they appear to be functioning properly, they need to be evaluated further for replacement. The East and West fan rooms are also equipped with duplex sewage ejectors serving floor drains in those rooms. The pumps in the East fan room appear to have been replaced recently and seem to be functioning properly. The pumps in the West fan room appear to be much older and although they seem to be functioning properly, should be replaced.

Plumbing Picture 4 – Main Sewage Ejector Pumps

Plumbing Picture 5 – Pool Sewage Ejector Pumps

Plumbing Picture 6 – West Fan Room Sewage Ejector Pumps


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Floor drains in the facility are not equipped with trap primers but facility personnel have reported no issues with sewer gas odor.

A gutter and downspout system serves the storm drainage system for the main and perimeter canopy roofs of the facility and daylight at eight locations at a catch basin. To prevent ground water from damaging the lower areas of the arena, there is a permanent dewatering system below the first floor of the facility around the event floor. This system also serves the elevator pit drains and area drains at the first floor landscaped areas. Facility personnel have reported that at locations where the floor has been removed and replaced leaks have developed. While it is not known the exact cause of these leaks, the existing dewatering system may need to be modified to help alleviate this issue. In addition, the dewatering system should be investigated with a pipeline inspection camera before making a determination about replacement.

Plumbing Picture 7 – Roof Storm Water Flume

Plumbing Picture 8 – Dewatering System Junction Box below Playing Floor

There is no natural gas supply serving the facility although existing drawings indicate that there is natural gas in the area and would need to be run to the building should natural gas be desired for items such as cooking at concessions.

There are several concession stands located on the second level. None of these concessions have cooking capabilities or a grease waste system. A grease waste system may need to be added to comply with current codes. While, the plumbing at the concessions appear to functioning properly and the staff made no mention of any issues within the concessions area, it is worn and should be replaced in the near future. In addition floor drains and floor sinks should be added to adequately handle any floor spills and waste from the food service equipment so that employees do not slip on a wet floor or trip over food service equipment drain lines.


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Plumbing Picture 9 – Concession Equipment Drain

Plumbing Picture 10 – Concession Plumbing Piping

Public restrooms were renovated approximately 11 years ago and are generally still in good working condition. The water closets and urinals are equipped with exposed diaphragm-type manual flush valves that comply with current water consumption requirements. The public restrooms have countertop mounted china lavatories with manual faucets that do not comply with current water consumption requirements. In addition, insulation should be installed at ADA lavatory waste and stop valves. The restrooms at Gates 2 & 3 are supplied with both hot and cold water, while the lavatories at the Gates 1 & 4 restrooms are supplied with cold water only. There is lack of adequate floor drains and there are no wash down hose bibbs. Both would aid the maintenance of these spaces.

Plumbing Picture 11 – Public Restroom Lavatory


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Plumbing Picture 12 – Public Restroom Urinals

Plumbing Picture 13 – Public Restroom Water Closet

Most locker rooms were renovated recently and are generally still in good working condition. However, the pool area fixtures are experiencing more advanced corrosion likely due to the exposure to pool chemical vapors. Most locker area restroom water closets and urinals are equipped with exposed diaphragm-type manual flush valves that comply with current water consumption requirements. The pool area locker room urinals are equipped with exposed diaphragm-type sensor flush valves. The locker rooms have individual wall hung or countertop lavatories with manual faucets. Insulation is installed on certain lavatories to comply with ADA. The locker room showers are equipped with in wall or exposed individual shower assemblies and are equipped with individual tempering valves. The gang showers are drained via a tiled trench around the perimeter of the space with low point floor drains. The shower heads are 6’-0” and should be at 7’-0” to accommodate taller athletes.

Plumbing Picture 14 – Locker Room ADA & Non-ADA Lavatories


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Plumbing Picture 15 – Locker Room Water Closets

Plumbing Picture 16 – Locker Room Urinals

Plumbing Picture 17 – Pool Locker Room Urinal Flush Valve

Electrical Report

There are two (2) separately metered electric services (USS #1 & USS #2) to the O’Connell Center. Each service lateral terminates in their respective main service switchboards “A” & “B” located on the service level. The two 1000 kVA service transformers and service laterals were installed in 1978 and are original to the building. Unit Substations #1 & #2 appear to be a minimum of 30 year old equipment installed when the original building was constructed. The switchboards are equipped with fusible disconnect switches to serve the various branch feeders. Due to the age of this equipment, it may become increasingly difficult to get replacement components for maintenance purposes. If it is decided to continue to use the existing equipment, it is recommended that a qualified electrical testing company be retained to perform comprehensive testing, inspection and service of Unit Substations #1 & #2 including fusible switches, bus bars and bus bar connections,


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and all wiring terminations to ensure all components function properly and safely. An optional recommendation would be to completely replace the existing 30 plus year-old switchboard equipment with new switchboards having electronic trip circuit breakers with integral adjustable long-time, short-time and ground fault settings. Doing so would extend the useful life of the building. Electrical Picture 1 – Unit Sub Station #1 Electrical Picture 2 – Unit Sub Station #2

Unit Substations #1 & #2 both appear to have a main-tie-main configuration with kirk-key interlocking. Each USS is equipped with a 2000A main disconnect at 480V and have a 4160V tie-breaker between them. The tie-breaker allows USS #1 to tie to USS #2 should service #1 fail and USS #2 to tie to USS #1 should service #2 fail. The existing main-tie-main configuration requires manual operation (not automatic) and therefore it is necessary that only authorized/trained personnel perform this operation. The kirk-key interlocking exists to prevent closure of the tie-breaker before either power source #1 or #2 is de-energized.

Electrical Picture 3 – Tie Breaker at Unit Sub Station #1

Distribution and branch panelboards are scattered throughout the rest of the building as needed to adequately distribute power. As areas are renovated, we would recommend a more comprehensive study be performed on the area of renovation to review spare capacity and spare circuit breakers.

The existing interior mounted Cummins diesel-fired generator is rated for 400 kW and feeds a Simplex 800A pad-mounted disconnect switch located next to the generator in the Emergency Generator Room. It continues to the Asco 800A automatic transfer switch and emergency switchboard located in the NE Electrical Room on the service level. The feeder circuit breakers in this panelboard appear to serve branch circuit panelboards throughout the arena which in turn feed egress


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and exit lighting, fire alarm system, fire and jockey pumps, smoke evacuation system and at least one elevator. Electrical Picture 4 – Emergency Generator

Show power inside the arena is located inside a caged area at the NW corner of the event floor. It is fed from a dedicated transformer to step down the power to 120/208V located in the same caged area and consists of (2) 400A circuit breakers feeding an array of female cam-lock receptacles and a branch panelboard feeding a variety standard duplex receptacles and special purpose receptacles.

Electrical Picture 5 – Show Power Cage

Electrical Picture 6 – Misc Receptacles Electrical Picture 7 – Cam-Lock Receptacles


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Additionally there are two disconnect switches at 208V located at the loading dock for trailer power that serve a set of 200A cam-locks and a set of 100A cam-locks. Outside of the loading dock there are more sets of cam-locks including (1) 400A, (1) 200A and (1) 100A for broadcast truck power. University staff reported that what they have existing is sufficient for providing power to host all type of events at the arena.

Electrical Picture 8 – Indoor Loading Dock Cam-Locks

Electrical Picture 9 – Outdoor Loading Dock Broadcast Truck Disconnects

There is miscellaneous power located on the walls behind the lower bleachers on the event floor to feed power to the scorer’s table location and other power needs such as ad panels which provides adequate power for its purpose. A cabinet housing the control connections for the scoreboard system is located against the wall in the SW corner of the event floor. The staff did not mention any issues with quantity and location of receptacles within the arena bowl.


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Electrical Picture 10 – Scoreboard Control Cabinet

At first glance the appearance of the facility is very bright and clean as the result of good original lighting design and the maintenance of the lights over the years to maintain the intended performance. However upon closer inspection some fixtures are showing evidence of rust and corrosion where the initial paint finishes have become worn or scratched over time exposing the bare metal of the fixture housing. The presence of chlorine fumes within the facility is resulting in increased corrosion problems on metal surfaces. Arena staff also reported problems with ballasts and other electronic equipment failing prematurely due to corrosion of components exposed to chlorine fumes.

The arena does not have a traditional catwalk system for mounting the event lighting fixtures. The event floor in the arena bowl is currently lit using aim-able metal halide light fixtures mounted to light trusses that are lowered by motorized winches to allow for maintenance and re-lamping. The footcandle levels produced by event lighting system are presumed to be sufficient to meet the current NCAA Best Lighting Practices for National Broadcast Championship Host levels.

Electrical Picture 11 – Event Lighting Trusses

The arena house lighting and the emergency lighting for the bowl are also mounted on the same light trusses. There is also no aisle/pathway lighting in the arena bowl. We recommend that these items be addressed as the lack of lighting within this area can pose a safety hazard during concerts and other shows where the seating bowl is dark during the event.

The lighting for the natatorium is similar to the sports floodlighting currently being utilized in the arena. Aim-able metal halide light fixtures are mounted on a catwalk system running parallel the length of the pool on one side to allow for maintenance and re-lamping. The lighting within the space looked very good and the footcandle levels are presumed to be sufficient to as a minimum meet the current NCAA Best Lighting Practices for Regional Broadcast levels.


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Electrical Picture 12 – Existing Natatorium Lighting

Due to the age of the facility and changes in the code over the past 30 years, the emergency lighting for the entire facility is likely to be in need of an upgrade. The current system should be analyzed for complete coverage of all egress exiting pathways and photometrics calculated to ensure the lighting levels throughout meet the most current code required footcandle levels. Existing exit signs are outdated in appearance and it is recommended that new updated versions of LED type signs be installed in their place.

Electrical Picture 13 – Existing Exit Sign

There were areas observed in the arena where high quantities of incandescent lamps are being utilized – some of the entry spaces as an example. It is recommended that a thorough lighting analysis be performed and itemized list of upgrades and retrofits for the older lamp technology be developed to help improve the energy efficiency of the building. In addition, we would recommend that all offices, storage rooms, electrical rooms, mechanical rooms, locker rooms, suites, and restrooms have an occupancy sensor installed. These spaces are currently switched only and in many spaces, the lighting was already on when we entered the previously unoccupied space.


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Electrical Picture 14 – Incandescent Lamp Light Fixtures

This building currently has an antiquated central lighting control system that while functional is likely nearing the end of its useful life. It is recommended that a comprehensive study to assess any lighting control issues that may exist and potentially upgrade the system to be more efficient and encompass more of the building lighting including the main concourses and all entry lighting.

Electrical Picture 15 – Existing Lighting Control Panel


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Fire Protection

The existing 6” fire sprinkler service entrance is located in the West fan room on the first level (west side of the building). There is an electric centrifugal split case, single stage pump, which appears to be rated for 2,500 gpm at 92’ head (40 psi), 20 HP 1750 rpm pump which serves the sprinkler system for the building. The pump and controller appear to be operating adequately; however, an analysis should be performed on the fire pump to ensure it’s still operating within its listing for the sprinkler demand and requirements and has not deteriorated significantly. The flow meter on the pump for testing should be recalibrated per latest pump testing. A test header should be added to the pump to allow actual flow of the system for testing per NFPA 20.

Fire Protection Picture 1 – Existing Fire Pump

Sprinkler protection is not provided in the seating bowl area. However, the overhangs around the arena bowl are provided with automatic sprinkler protection. Under the bowl building entries and walkways have no sprinkler protection.

Fire Protection Picture 2 – Seating Bowl Area

Fire Protection Picture 3 – Overhangs at Arena Bowl


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Fire Protection Picture 4 – Under the Bowl Building Entry

The loading dock is provided with a dry pipe sprinkler system to protect the space. The dry riser is located in the West fan room on the first level (west side of the building). The piping for this space is galvanized downstream of the dry pipe. This allows for a longer life span of the piping exposed to the elements.

Fire Protection Picture 5 – Dry Riser for Loading Dock

The concessions, restrooms, locker rooms and offices are provided with the wet pipe sprinkler system throughout. A thorough review of sprinkler locations could be performed to ensure the spacing and locations meet current code. In general the fire sprinkler piping appears to be in good condition. However, the pool area fire sprinkler piping is experiencing advanced corrosion due to the exposure to pool chemical vapors.


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Fire Protection Picture 6 – Pool Area Locker Sprinkler Lines

The existing Simplex 4100U fire alarm panel with voice evacuation system is located in the security office just off of the corridor from the loading dock. The system appears to be functioning properly per facilities management and seems to be in good condition. A functional test of the fire alarm system was not witnessed during the visit. An evaluation should be done to add audible/visible notification where necessary throughout all spaces to meet current minimum code requirements.

Fire Protection Picture 7 – Existing Simplex 4100U Fire Alarm System

The security office is complete with phone jacks/phones, microphone for live voice announcements and plans of all the fire alarm equipment currently installed. The panel has an additional cabinet with VESDA system located adjacent to it.


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Fire Protection Picture 8 – Existing VESDA System

The arena bowl has some notification equipment located on the event floor, concourse level and upper seating bowl cross aisle. The existing notification for the arena area should be assessed to ensure proper coverage is currently provided. The fire alarm system captures the PA system in the seating area to supplement the audibility within the arena bowl space but does not shunt the scoreboard which we would recommend.

It is recommended that a thorough evaluation of the entire system be performed to ensure current audible/visible notification located throughout all spaces meets minimum code requirements.


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STRUCTURAL REVIEW

The structure of the original building was a combination of cast-in-place and precast concrete framing and stadia seating with an inflated fabric roofing system. In 1998, the primary fabric roof was deflated and a hard-shelled space-frame roof was added. The change in load distribution between the two roof systems was accomplished by the addition of new steel post columns and braces throughout the concrete structure.

The structural condition of the O’Connell center, as observed on September 22, 2011, appeared to be in good condition with only a few areas that should be considered for repair in the conceptual renovations/additions within this report. Overall the structural frame appeared to be well maintained for its age. Below are the observations for this structural assessment:

The exterior loading dock framing appeared to be in good condition.

Signs of water intrusion were observed above the loading dock overhead door suggesting the waterproofing system on the slab above may be compromised.

There were no signs of CMU wall cracking in Event Level perimeter corridor.


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Some joints in the concourse level precast hollow core planks were observed to be open and/or not caulked. This was observed from the event level in each quadrant immediately adjacent to the stair cases. The observed joints should be caulked and painted.

It was brought to the review team’s attention that during rain events, the rubber flooring at the event level court area was starting to bubble and was creating trip hazards. The owner indicated when the bubbles are popped there are large amounts of water that come out. The rubber flooring should be considered for replacement and the concrete slab-on-grade evaluated for waterproofing and/or replacement.

The retractable and permanent seating bowls appeared to be in good condition.

The fabric roofing around the perimeter of the hard-shelled primary roof appeared to be in good condition.


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It was brought to the review team’s attention that water intrusion was a problem at penetrations in the perimeter fabric roofing. All fabric penetrations should be resealed.

Steel posts and braces from 1998 roof replacement appeared to be in good condition.

The lower connection of the southeast and southwest quadrant flumes contained some minor cracking/spalling that should be patched.

Entry stairs all appeared to be in good condition.


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All structural framing appeared to be in good condition at the natatorium with the exception of the catwalk framing which was showing signs of minor rusting. The catwalk framing should be cleaned and recoated for moisture protection.

Some connection plates under the Concourse Level were observed to have minor rust in the storage area behind the natatorium. These connection plates should be cleaned and recoated for moisture protection.

The steel connections at the concrete raker to the round (air shaft) concrete column interface in the southwest quadrant appeared to have some corrosion. Additionally, some cracking was observed in the top concrete tread at the column. The steel connections should be cleaned and recoated for moisture protection and the concrete cracks patched.

The space-frame roof structure and rigging grid appeared to be in good condition.


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Some cracking in the west side exterior wall was observed from the practice court area. The cracked wall should be patched.

The precast concrete flume structures appear to be in reasonable good condition but should be periodically repainted to protect against moisture intrusion.

The exterior structural elements appear to be in reasonable good condition but should be periodically pressure washed and repainted where applicable.

Some roof fabric cables appeared to be loosened and should be re-tensioned per original installation standards.


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Some roof fabric cable anchorages appear to be rusting and should be cleaned, caulked, and painted to protect against moisture intrusion.

Documents

THE UNIVERSITY OF FLORIDA - STEPHAN C. O ...facilities.ufl.edu/prjdocs/00003082.pdfAdditional wall graphics are recommended to add more “life” to the space. The men’s basketball