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TTHHEE SSCCOOPPEE
BUFFALO/WESTERN NEW YORK CHAPTER CHARTERED IN 1958 INCORPORATED 1966
Construction Specifications Institute, Inc. www.csinet.org March 2015
Buffalo/WNY website: csibuffalo.wix.com
March Luncheon and Membership Meeting March 12, 2015; 12:00 PM
REFLECTVE ROOF COATINGS
Presented by Sherwin-Williams
Bruce Werner 1 CEU/HSW
Ramada Hotel and Conference Center
2402 North Forest Road, Amherst NY
This program will explore the fundamentals of Protective Roof Coatings. See page 5 for more information.
Meal choices: Turkey Reuben, Chicken Caesar Salad or Pulled Pork Registrations received after MARCH 6
th will be served Chef Choice.
Cost: No Charge to CSI Members
Non-Members $ 10.00
RSVP with DONNA at 875-4627 or [email protected]
Give your name, firm and menu choice
RESERVATIONS MUST BE MADE BY 4:00 PM, MARCH 6, 2015
(CANCELLATIONS NO LATER THAN 4:00 PM MONDAY, OR NO SHOWS WILL BE BILLED)
2 The Scope
CHAPTER OFFICERS FY 2015 President – Deborah J. Siener, RA, CSI, CDT, LEED AP BD & C Kideney Architects, PC
Secretary - Robert H. Rumpl, AIA, CSI Trautman Associates
Treasurer – Joanne S. Harris, CSI Marvin Windows and Doors
Immediate Past President, Advisor to the Board – Kevin J. Mahoney, CSI
Baer & Associates, LLC Region Director - Anthony E. Gorski, AIA, CSI Kideney Architects, PC
COMMITTEE CHAIR Program - Bill Diehl, CSI Construction Exchange of BWNY
Education - Ted Czajkowski, CCS, CSI Retired
Awards – Jennifer Hill BECxP, CSI, LEED AP Wendel.
Certification - Kevin M. O’Beirne, PE, CCS, CCCA, CSI ARCADIS U.S., Inc.
Electronic Communications - Alexander P. Grande, CSI, CDT Kideney Architects, PC
Membership - Brad Vaillancourt, RA, LEED AP, CSI Trautman Associates
DIRECTORS James Grucella, CSI – Thermal Foams, Inc. Christopher Picone, CSI – Picone Construction Joanne S. Harris, CSI – Marvin Windows and Doors Brad Vaillancourt, CSI – Trautman Associates Ted Czajkowski, CSI –Retired Jennifer Hill, BECxP, CSI, LEED – Wendel EDITORS Alexander P. Grande, CSI, CDT 200 JJ Audubon Pkwy, Buffalo, NY 14228 James Grucella, CSI Thermal Foams Inc. 5575 Big Tree Rd., Orchard Park, NY 14127-2206 NORTHEAST REGION President - Tracey Powell. CSI Director – William C. DuBois, CSI, CCS [email protected] Director at Large – Tracey Powell EDITORIAL POLICY “THE SCOPE” is published as the official newsletter of the Buffalo-Western New York Chapter Construction Specifications Institute. It may also be used to exchange information and opinions. Contributions of articles from readers are welcome when proper sources are identified, but neither the Editor nor the Chapter assumes responsibility for the validity of accuracy of such articles. Any part of this newsletter may be reproduced by other CSI chapters, giving proper source identification. The appearance of any article, advertisement, product, service, names, picture, opinion or assertion does not constitute endorsement by the Chapter or its members. Contributions should be in the Editor’s office by the third Tuesday of the month.
CONTACT 716-636-9700 716-883-4400 716-662-2554 716-881-0000 716-636-9700 CONTACT 716-874-3435 716-883-3716 716-888-0766 716-667-6667 716-636-9700 716-883-4400 CONTACT 716-997-6320 716-634-9994 716-662-2554 716-883-4400 716-883-4400 716-688-0766 CONTACT 716-636-9700 716-633-5715 CONTACT 401-525-6684 401-525-6684
Northeast Region Conference
The Art of Sustainability
Williamstown MA
May 14-16, 2015
http://ner.csinet.org
for information and registration
3 The Scope
The Unexpected Journey
By President Deb Siener
The CSI Buffalo-Western New York Board met with CSI Boston President Michelle Roberts
and her colleges Tom and Eugene, while she was in town on business. We had a nice meet and
greet hosted at Construction Exchange with a sharing of our chapter similarities and differences.
Michelle was interested in learning how other chapters select programs and the how to involve
more architects and engineers. We came away with a lot of ideas and new friends. We hope to
see Michelle this spring at the regional conference in Massachusetts and Tom and Eugene at our
chapter luncheons. It was quite an enjoyable meeting.
We had a successful February luncheon with Rob Fohl of Fohl Sales Inc. giving a presentation
on sound attenuation. Many brave souls ventured out to join us on that bitter day. I think I speak
for all of us that spring can’t come soon enough this year. Even an avid skier expressed: ” I’m
done with this”!
I would be remiss if I did not mention the passing of Alvin Oberst. A very active member for
more than 50 years and mentor to many of us. I could write about the sadness of losing
someone, but would prefer to reflect on the great ride he had. At nearly 95, Al was still active
until he fell last autumn. I lost my dad a couple of years ago at the same age as Al. He also had
a great sense of humor right until the end. I can only say what a privilege it has been to have
spent time with them in their later years. The stories they told and respect I hold. CSI will go on
but it won’t be the same without you, Al!
4 The Scope
Alvin J. Oberst, P.E. CSI Member Emeritus
August 31, 1920 – January 29, 2015
As I visited Al during his last few months I believed that he was preparing for his journey to be with his family in Atlanta. It has occurred to me that Al never packed a thing and he understood that his journey would require nothing other than his good life. He left on quietly Thursday, January 29th,, to join his God and those souls he missed so dearly.
The Alvin J. Oberst Excellence in Service Award By Jim Grucella CSI, Editor
While February 1958 is the genesis of the Buffalo/WNY Chapter of the Construction Specifications Institute, it received a heart in August of 1960 when Alvin J. Oberst joined the Chapter. He has received a multitude of awards through his 54 years of leadership in the Chapter: Institute Member Emeritus bestowed in 1992, Northeast Region Distinguished Service Award 1993, David Bob Memorial Award, 1991, plus all of the Citation of Service Awards as Chapter President, Vice-president, and Scope Editor. It is in the last distinction that Al became the real pulse of the Buffalo Chapter. Taking charge of the newsletter from Art Chatterton in January 1994, he personalized the newsletter with a “’Front Page’ headline appearance managed the advertisements, and became the clarion for all our chapter activities. During his term as President, the Annual CSI Golf Outing, joint meetings with the Specifications Writers Association of Canada were inaugurated. Al was blessed with much inspiration in his life and a true partner for all his endeavors in his lovely wife, Marilyn, who left his side after a long illness in 1998. Al found new strength as he poured himself into his pet projects and the Buffalo/WNY Chapter. (continued on page 5)
5 The Scope
2
Having worked with Al directly for my eight years as Secretary, three years as Region Conference Chairman and Two years as Chapter President, I was not immune from his not-so-gentle nudges for articles and columns. It was fortunate that I enjoyed writing and found the column an easy platform to promote discuss a variety of life’s aspects reflected in all of our chapter activities. This mutual collaboration grew into a delightful working relationship and I benefited from his tireless counsel, support and ideas during the creation of our third Northeast Region Conference that I chaired in 2004. Our meetings began monthly became weekly and Al was always there to salve my complaints. As I served as Northeast Region Director we were on the same side of the table, but even in disagreement his true spirit and concern for the Buffalo CSI were always at the forefront of his suggestions. While Vince Bernard affected me in an outward direction, Al always pulled me back to our chapter. Al’s commitment to the CSI and particularly our Chapter inspired me to submit the concept of the ‘Alvin J. Oberst Excellence in Service Award’ in September of 2013, as our most prestigious award. It was unanimously approved by the Board. I designed an engraved medallion which will have the name of the recipient on each award. Tracey Powell, President of the Northeast Region who visited our Chapter on November 14, 2013, was present for the first ever presentation. How fitting it be awarded to its namesake! I was delighted that Tracy honored me with opportunity to present this award to my friend of 24 years. Al celebrated his reception at our annual Christmas Dinner last December at Rizotto’s Restaurant with his close friend Vi.
6 The Scope
UNIFLEX Reflective Roof Coatings How they play a key role in today’s ‘green’ marketplace
Presenter: Bruce Werner, CSI Learning Objectives: Understand the fundamentals of Protective Roof Coatings
Explore the types of roof coatings in the market and where they are used
Evaluating and understanding Roof Asset Management
Gain an understanding of what ‘Cool Roofs’ are and how they are rated
Discuss the impact of ‘Cool Roofs’ on the ‘green environment
Company Overview: For over 144 years, Architects, Designers, Contractors, Builders and Property Managers have relied on Sherwin-Williams products and people. With over 3300 stores and many local representatives across North America, you can be sure we’ll continue to provide the technical support and service you need whether it is for Architectural or Industrial projects.
Upcoming Seminars April 9, 2015 – S-5 May 14, 2015 – DIRRT Environmental Solutions June 11, 2015 – Chapter Summer Event to be announced 2
7 The Scope
Boston Chapter President Visit By Robert Rumpl, Secretary
CSI Buffalo-Western New York Board members met with Michelle Roberts CSI Boston President on
Monday January 28, 2015 as a ’meet and greet’ to sit down and compare notes on various ways and
methods to improve attendance at monthly meetings, encourage non-members to join and increase
membership. Mrs. Roberts was looking to learn as much as she could on how other Chapters pick programs
and her mission to get more architects and engineers to get more active. A number of interesting similarities
and suggestions by each group resulted in vibrant discussions and sharing of ideas. The lunch was
graciously provided by Michelle Roberts and the General Insulation Company and hosted by Bill Diehl and
the Construction Exchange in their spacious Board Room.
Visitors at our February Meeting
Mercedes Calaway- R&P Oak Hill, Scott Chriswell- Northstar Supply, Tom Fallon- Cosella-Dorkin, Drew
Ferraro- Rigidized Metals, Anthony Mussachio and Marc Mussachio – Mussachio Architects, Mark Finch-
MJA Company, Don Gray- Wendel, Chris Hogan- R&P Oak Hill, Jim Klino, Scott Kuebler- UB, Andy
McKelvey- R&P Oak Hill, Frank Notaro, PE, Russ Snow- Building Science Specialist, Lou Pease-RA, Jim
Pellow- RA, Nicole Santoro- City View Const. Mgmt, Larry Senear- RA, Nick Shiferle- North Star Supply,
Wayne Scott- R&P Oak Hill, Carl Shepard- Kideney, Ron VanSplunder- UB, Pamela Wilde- North Star
Supply, Charlie Wopperer- Thermal Foams.
Please note special article by our esteemed Certification
Chair, Kevin O’Beirne ‘The London Assignment’ which is attached to this SCOPE.
8 The Scope
SCOPE SPONSORS
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A SCOPE SPONSOR
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ROBERT (BOB) HENLEY, CSI 716-634-0484
JOHN H. BLACK COMPANY, INC. “THE BRICK PEOPLE”
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JIM CORCORAN 315-283-3705
Firm/Company Name:
Spec Division or Type of Business:
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Telephone:
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The Scope Newsletter The Construction Specifications Institute Buffalo – Western New York Chapter 2660 William Street Cheektowaga, NY 14227
Mail to:
FIRST CLASS MAIL
OUR SPONSORS & ADVERTISERS ARE WORTHY OF YOUR
CONSIDERATION
BE A SPONSOR OF THE SCOPE For as little as $50.00 for ten issues for a listing of your business name, type of business or specification division, member’s name and telephone number. Ad size: 2 ½ inch x 1 inch. OR for $75.00 for ten issues a calling card or calling card sized ad can be placed on the inside pages of the SCOPE. Ad size: 3 ½ inch x 2 1/8 inch. Please fill out the application below or attach a calling card and mail with your check to: Jim Grucella, CSI SCOPE Editor 5575 Big Tree Rd.. Orchard Park, New York 14127
Article for The Scope (2015) newsletter of the
Construction Specifications Institute’s Buffalo-Western NY Chapter
Bloke, Aren’t You a Bit Old to be an Exchange Student? by Kevin O’Beirne, PE, CSI
Somewhere around January 23, 2015, I received a telephone call asking me if I would consider accepting an assignment from my employer, ARCADIS, to work in London, England, for “three to six weeks”. Considering how I’d never been to London, England, or Europe before, I accepted. After three failed travel attempts (one due to “aircraft maintenance problems” and two due to adverse winter weather), I finally reached London via a Boeing 777 on Wednesday morning, February 4, after an overnight flight.
The project that appeared to require my special talents—warm body, ability to read and write, some basic knowledge of sewers, design-build project delivery, and construction methods—was indeed impressive and worth travelling almost 4,000 miles: the Thames Tideway Tunnel.
Like most old, large cities (including Buffalo NY), London has a system of “combined sewers”, meaning that storm water flowing into catch basins and curb inlets discharges into the same underground sewers that normally carry actual sewage. When it rains, relief outlets along the Thames River allow diluted, untreated wastewater that exceed the sewers’ capacity (“combined sewer overflows” or CSO) directly to the Thames River. The same thing happens every time it rains in Buffalo, where the Buffalo Sewer Authority is currently preparing to implement a $400 million, 20-year program to control its own CSOs.
London’s solution, as proposed by its privatized water-wastewater utility (Thames Water Utilities, Ltd. or TWUL) and accepted by the United Kingdom’s version of the US Environmental Protection Agency, is the London Tideway Tunnel program, of which the Thames Tideway Tunnel (TTT), with an estimated price tag of over US$6 billion (yes, with a “B”)—approximately £4 billion—is by far the most-significant element. Aside from the TTT, other elements of the program increase the total cost by a further £2 billion.
The TTT will be a 16-mile-long (26 km) tunnel, most of which will be about 24 feet (7.2 m) in finished, inside diameter, generally running parallel with an underneath the center of the Thames River. The tunnel will provide approximately 400 million gallons (1.5 million cubic meters) of storage for CSOs that would otherwise discharge into the Thames. The extensive project will include 25 different major worksites, most of which include constructing deep drop-shafts (with appurtenant above-ground structures and support systems); intercepting sewers will pick up flow from the existing CSO discharges and convey it to the drop shafts. Smaller-diameter (generally about 10- to 12-feet diameter) connecting tunnels will convey CSO from the drop shafts to the main storage tunnel under the river. After each wet weather event in which the tunnel is activated, the tunnel system will eventually be drained and its contents pumped to the region’s wastewater treatment facilities for full treatment. The TTT project’s proposed array of tunnels, penstocks, ventilation systems, physical flow controls such as hydraulic gates and weirs, and sophisticated computerized control and monitoring systems, is truly impressive. The main tunnel and most of the connecting tunnels will be constructed using large tunnel boring machines (TBM); the deep structures required to insert and retrieve each TBM are massive.
London’s planned solution to its CSOs is not novel or unique; only its scale is notable. The City of Rochester NY has, on a much-smaller scale, a deep tunnel system for CSO storage constructed in the 1980s. The sewer systems operated by Erie County NY and many surrounding communities include “large” tanks for storing excess sewage flows that exceed sewers’ capacity; yours truly has designed and worked on the construction of several such tanks in western New York and northwestern Pennsylvania. As indicated above, the Buffalo Sewer Authority is still preparing to initiate large-scale mitigation of its CSOs.
The TTT project will be implemented using an interesting contractual approach—sort-of like a public-private partnership except in this case both parties are private—in which TWUL will enter into a contract with a “developer” called the “Infrastructure Provider” (IP) who will construct, own, and maintain the TTT in return for a dedicated revenue stream. The IP will hire three design-builders each of which will design and construct approximately one-third of the TTT. The project also includes other contracts for other necessary services.
To reduce construction impacts on London and adjacent communities, regulatory authorities have required that virtually all construction logistics be via the Thames River. The quantity of tugboats, barges, and seagoing vessels to carry construction materials to the 25 worksites (managed by three design-builders) and convey spoil removed from the tunnels and excavations is significantly greater than is currently available on the Thames, and required extraordinary attention by TWUL and its program manager to ensure that the necessary marine transport resources and trained marine crews are available when needed.
The IP contract and three design-build contracts are to be awarded in the first half of 2015, and construction of the TTT is scheduled for 2016 through 2023. After construction, startup, and acceptance of the completed works, the IP will own and maintain the tunnels, but the system will be operated by TWUL.
Aside from the TTT project, TWUL’s overall London Tideway Tunnel program includes the recently-completed Lee Tunnel (through which the TTT will be drained), significant upgrades at various wastewater treatment facilities, and other improvements in TWUL’s system.
The program has some significant opposition in London and adjacent communities, particularly because of its huge cost, which will result in large wastewater rate increases for the entire London metro area.
My employer was hired as a second set of eyes on the preliminary design prepared by TWUL and its consultants; our work is called a “due diligence review”. Our London office (with over 400 staff members) is filled with experts on program management, cost estimating, financial experts, and building asset manager, but id has no experienced wastewater engineers. Hence, in May 2014 they reached “across the pond” to our US part of the company and somebody here said, “O’Beirne would be a good person to handle the constructability review.” Small sentence, huge assignment. Imagine having to evaluate “constructability” for a $6 billion project. I assisted on-and-off with the project from Buffalo during 2014, but now I’m “over here” in London.
Given the project’s financial stakes, I’m literally prohibited from writing about the nuts and bolts of what I’m currently doing (call me “Agent 007 of the wastewater set”, if you like), but while I’m here in London, the hours are long and the work seems too much for the time available. That said, it’s certainly the largest project of my career and it’s quite interesting.
If you ever get the chance to visit London, the people are extremely likeable and polite. In February they complain about “bitter cold” when the air temperature is 40 degrees Fahrenheit; they drive on the wrong side of the road; and ordering a “sandwich” here gets one a good deal more bread than meat.
All that said, while I’m too old to be considered a foreign exchange student, that’s pretty much how I feel as I write this in a London hotel room. As it turns out, instead of being here for as long as was originally threatened, my trip is only about 2.5 weeks (followed immediately by five days in Savannah GA for the winter 2015 meeting of the Engineers Joint Contract
Documents Committee), so I should be back home by late-February… unless they need me back here!
Kevin O’Beirne, PE, CSI, CCS, CCCA is a Principal Engineer
and Manager of Standard Construction Documents at ARCADIS
U.S., Inc.(www.arcadis-us.com) in Buffalo. ARCADIS is a leading
global natural- and built-asset design and consultancy firm
specializing in buildings, water, environment, and infrastructure
with 6,200 U.S. employees and 28,000 employees worldwide. In
addition to serving as the CSI Buffalo-WNY Chapter Certification
Chair, Kevin is the FY 2014-2015 Chair of the Engineers Joint
Contract Documents Committee (EJCDC) and is a member of CSI’s MasterFormat
Maintenance Task Team. He is a professional engineer licensed in NY and PA and can be reached at 716.667.6667,
