International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers Local 697
International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers Training Center
The state-of-the-art administration and training facility features solar power energy, sustainable technology, and green building components.
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  • Project Type
    • Building
  • Status
  • Delivery Method
    • Construction Management At-Risk
  • Location
    • Merrillville, IN
  • Duration
    • 12 months
  • Size
    • 42,000 sqft
  • Architect
    • Shive-Hattery
Project Overview

Certified as a USGBC LEED Gold building, the new International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers Local 697 Training Center serves many needs for the growing union. The 42,000 sqft complex houses IBEW’s headquarters, administrative offices, classrooms, and training facility. This sustainable building is the home of a state-of-the-art apprenticeship school and was designed for the continued expansion of future energy technologies. Most impressively, it uses solar energy and a 100-kilowatt wind turbine to provide green power throughout the facility.

Approach

As a technology and innovation leader, IBEW 697 was committed to taking a sustainable approach. Berglund looked for every opportunity to meet and exceed these sustainability goals. The building incorporates high efficiency heating, cooling, windows and insulation systems. It also features a daylight harvesting system, low VOC construction materials and a treated stormwater system.

  • The walls and interiors feature wood from trees cleared for construction.
  • To save on costs, we prioritized early installation of the photovoltaic solar panels. These panels then served as a power source throughout the construction phase.
  • Over 84% of all construction waste and materials were diverted from landfills.
  • Berglund coordinated with Save the Dunes Council to preserve of the native habitat, reduce storm water quantity and improve of storm water quality.
  • Additional green building features include LED lighting, a reflective white roof, an automated flagpole, rain gardens, bicycle racks and electric car charging stations.
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Precast Detailing / Stocking Roof Materials
2 / 5
Solar Panels used to generate power for small tools during construction (LEED Innovation Credit)
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Final Rendering of Entrance
4 / 5
Precast Erection
5 / 5
Solar Panels used to generate power for small tools during construction (LEED Innovation Credit)
Outcomes

Berglund assisted in site selection, cost estimating and budgeting during preconstruction. Throughout the design process, Berglund reviewed all design components and assemblies for constructability, cost and schedule implications. We maintained an ongoing dialogue on the component costs of the budget and presented cost savings to IBEW 697 for their board review. Berglund’s highly skilled field force, thorough vetting of local subcontractors and constant communication with IBEW 697 and the design team, brought the project in 7% under the original $10 million budget.

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