On the Road to Sustainability: Higher Education Embraces Energy Retrofits and Adaptive Reuse INDUSTRY INSIGHT:
One of the most compelling benefits of adaptive reuse is preserving and breathing new life into a much-loved or historic campus building.”
CHA Director of Design Chan Byun
Colleges and universities have long been committed to sustainability and are leaders in enhancing the built environment with modern building design and campus planning approaches founded on sustainability principles. From the use of carbon-neutral materials and following green building standards to implementing energy-efficient systems and reducing construction waste, they are committed to comprehensive changes that have a big impact on their environmental footprint and the long-term ownership of often energy-intensive and highly utilized buildings. Higher education has embraced the view that small changes can make a big impact.
One of the most significant elements of these sustainability commitments has been the trend toward energy retrofits and adaptive reuse of existing buildings and spaces before constructing something new. Most institutions have sustainability goals centered around net zero energy use and/or net zero emissions. Some have even adopted policies whereby they will try not to expand their campus footprint but instead adapt, upgrade, and reuse the space they have in an effort to prioritize reuse of existing building stock over demolition and new construction as a conscious carbon footprint strategy.
Energy retrofits offer colleges and universities the opportunity to make positive, sustainable impacts on their environmental footprint with measurable results. By
upgrading building systems in existing spaces, campuses can improve their energy consumption, reduce operating costs, and make buildings more comfortable for their students and staff. CHA Principal Architect Aleks Janjic notes, “The biggest challenge of energy retrofits we are seeing is balancing energy efficiency with budget constraints, which is critically important to owners and project success.” Some of the system components of an energy retrofit may include HVAC system upgrades, MEP systems, energy-efficient lighting, the addition of renewable energy such as solar panels, and smart building systems that allow for real-time adjustments to boost performance.
Equally important and potentially complex are upgrades to the building envelope itself. Ideally, improvements to the building’s walls, roof, windows, and doors can increase overall comfort and decrease the size of the new HVAC systems needed. Envelope upgrades can be tricky and disruptive, depending on the type of construction and the need to preserve either exterior or interior surfaces. Thought must be given to the best approach to the existing construction to maximize thermal performance, consider aesthetic impact, and understand tolerance for disruption. There are also many benefits to adaptive reuse of existing structures, including saving money, promoting environmental sustainability, and being a good steward of
campus resources. “One of the most compelling benefits of adaptive reuse is preserving and breathing new life into a much-loved or historic campus building. These buildings may have outlasted their initial use, but they are often cornerstones of the institution and have long histories, decades of memories for alumni, and amazing stories to tell,” explains CHA Director of Design Chan Byun. By reimagining these buildings for new purposes with modern building systems, finishes, and technology, they continue as treasured components of a comprehensive campus. Strategic renovation is another option to preserve an existing building rather than building something new.
Cost savings can be realized as part of adaptive reuse and strategic renovation. Renovating a building can often be less expensive than building a new building. In addition,
(Continue on next page)
NEWS
The biggest challenge of energy retrofits we are seeing is balancing energy efficiency with budget constraints, which is critically important to owners and project success.”
CHA Principal Architect Aleks Janjic
CHA Rises on 2025 ENR Top 500 Design Firms List
CHA has climbed to #63 (up from #65) on Engineering News-Record’s (ENR’s) recently published 2025 Top 500 Design Firms list. Additionally, CHA now ranks #52 on the Top 100 Pure Designers list.
Read more here.
The greenest
building is one that is already built.”
Carl Elefante
,
Architect and former President of the American Institute of Architects
(AIA)
disruption to campus is minimized when existing buildings are renovated since there is usually no need for extensive site work and the heavy equipment that it requires, and work can be completed in less time. When existing buildings are renovated instead of being removed for something new, there is a measurable reduction in the environmental impact from less material being transferred away as waste and a reduced need to manufacture and truck in new materials. Renovating an existing building also provides an opportunity to add modern building systems to improve energy efficiency and reduce carbon emissions.
Adaptive reuse is not without its challenges, which include identifying any structural limitations that may impact a new configuration, the unknowns that can be uncovered in older buildings, upfront costs to understand in detail what the renovation will entail, managing disruptions or space relocations if the space is currently occupied, and navigating regulatory and permitting challenges which can be complex, particularly when renovating historic structures.
Gallaudet University Microgrid Project Award
The Gallaudet University Microgrid Project has been honored with a 2024 Award of Excellence by the Associated Builders and Contractors (ABC) Excellence in Construction Awards program.
Read more here.
When the University of Maine Law School needed a new home, it turned to adaptive reuse to meet its needs. A five-story modern office building in Portland’s Old Port, woven among historic civic buildings, offered an opportunity to design a law school for modern thinking while acknowledging the historical underpinnings of the profession. Their renovated space converted an open office concept into private and acoustically isolated offices and office suites, high-flex classrooms, and a Moot-court classroom, all equipped with integrated technology. One significant challenge was the intense coordination of building systems in the tight floor-to-floor height within the existing structure.
A successful example of strategic renovation to extend the useful life of existing buildings can be found on the Farmington campus of the University of Maine. Purington and Mallett Halls featured classical brick exteriors and broad, welcoming porches that have appealed to the college student body for over one hundred years. However, the interior of the buildings, largely unchanged in recent decades, no longer accommodated the way students live in residence halls, and the lack of accessibility into and
throughout the building was a pressing issue. Replacing the buildings was unthinkable; they are iconic and beloved by the college and community alike, and funds were limited. Following a thorough stakeholder engagement process, student and staff needs and wants were integrated with university priorities. Extensive renovations at both buildings preserve their essential character while providing needed improvements to the MEP systems, converting group bathrooms into single-user bathrooms, bringing communal uses such as kitchens and laundry rooms to the first floor, and adding sensitively detailed ADA-compliant ramps to each building.
As higher educational institutions continue to embrace sustainability, their use of energy retrofits, strategic renovations, and adaptive reuse will continue to benefit their students, staff, and overall ability to positively impact our environment.
For more information, contact Robin Tannenbaum, RA, LEED AP, at rtannenbaum@chasolutions.com.
CHA Earns Two APWA Project of the Year Awards NEWS
CHA has earned two APWA Project of the Year awards in New York State. The Capital Branch honored the City of Albany’s Lark Street Renovation project, and the Western New York Branch honored Niagara County’s Replacement of East Canal Road Bridge Over Donner Brook project.
Read more here.
FROM THE CEO’S DESK…
It’s exciting to be part of the continuous transformation of the built environment as it evolves along with changing needs and attitudes.
From demographics and technology to views on sustainability and better health, the built environment continues to evolve. Many recent trends in building design focus on sustainability, health, and energy efficiency. These trends include smart building systems, the increased use of sustainable materials, energy-efficient heating and cooling, the integration of renewable energy sources, and biophilic design to connect occupants more directly to nature. The design and construction sector has long embraced the idea of sustainable building. Designations such as Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design, better known as LEED, and net-zero or net zero energy have become increasingly common over the last
NEWS
decade. According to the U.S. Green Building Council, LEED is the world’s most widely used green building rating system, with 197,000 LEED projects worldwide, representing nearly 30 billion square feet of space. Similarly, the American Institute of Architects (AIA) reported a 345% increase in net zero energy projects between 2018 and 2023. CHA has a large portfolio of LEED and net zero projects, from athletic facilities and schools to multi-unit housing and public buildings.
Technological innovations continue to impact every part of our lives, including our buildings. Smart building systems and all types of technology are now being incorporated into new building designs and energy retrofit projects to ensure building systems are optimized for energy efficiency and maximum performance. These technologies can automate systems and allow for real-time adjustments, saving energy and dollars. The availability of sustainable building materials continues to expand and enhance our ability to reduce our carbon footprint in the built environment. Designers are tapping
Strategic Promotions in Commercial & Institutional Sector
Please join us in congratulating several leaders in our Commercial and Institutional Sector who are taking on new roles to strengthen our ability to deliver innovative solutions for our clients.
Rich
Amanda Sawyer, AIA, LEED
Joe Romano, PE Business Practice Leader, Land Development Frank Iuliano Program Manager, New York State Office of General Services
Jonathan Greathouse Business Practice Leader, Fire Protection –Domestic
Josh Whaley Business Practice Leader, Fire ProtectionInternational
into materials that can be recycled or reused, such as concrete, steel, and reclaimed wood. They are also designing spaces with the intention of incorporating lowemitting building materials such as solid wood flooring, which can be sustainably sourced, and high-performance building envelope features to maximize energy efficiency and durability. For example, triple-glazed windows feature three layers of glass and inert gas infills to reduce heat loss. Many efficient energy options continue to be incorporated into buildings, including geothermal wells, photovoltaic roof panels, river water heat exchange, wastewater heat recovery systems, and daylight harvesting lighting. All of these options promote a building’s more sustainable operation and reduce its carbon footprint. New renewable energy sources continue to evolve as our energy grid faces higher demand for electricity to power buildings, vehicles, and technology. A few of the more common renewable energy sources being integrated into modern buildings are solar energy sources, including photovoltaic panels, wind energy, small turbines, and geothermal heat pumps,
with some communities even tapping hydropower as an energy source.
Attitudes about connecting with nature also impact building design because many believe this connection can positively enhance well-being and impact health. The trend of incorporating biophilic design brings natural elements into our building spaces, from offices to schools. One example is incorporating large windows that bring in natural light and allow occupants to view the outdoors to create cheerful and inviting spaces that support increased productivity and creativity and promote better health. The built environment challenges us to adapt, innovate, and build better, and we are up to the task. By tapping into our depth of talent and expertise across the building spectrum, from architecture to MEP, we can deliver for our clients, exceeding their expectations. Finding a better way to build and innovate is what we do every day for every client.
Jim Stephenson, President & CEO
ACEC New Hampshire Presents Gold Award to CHA NEWS
CHA earned a 2025 GOLD Award at the ACEC New Hampshire Engineering Excellence Awards for impressive work on the F.E. Everett Turnpike Improvements project.
Read more here.
FEATURED PROJECTS
Campus & Institutional Sector
Jamaica Armory
Jamaica, Queens, New York
In February, CHA joined our longstanding client, the New York State Office of General Services (NYSOGS), in conjunction with the Department of Military and Naval Affairs, to celebrate the grand re-opening of the historic Jamaica Armory in Queens, NY. This facility serves as a base of operations for training, administrative and logistical teams, recruitment, and emergency response functions for the Army National Guard. The comprehensive renovation project began in 2019 and involved a complete interior modernization and rehabilitation of the 190,000-squarefoot building, along with repairs to an exterior masonry wall near Long Island Railroad tracks.
CHA led the design team, coordinating multiple consultants and providing program and project management, QA/QC, laser scanning and BIM coordination, utility coordination, architectural and structural design, MEP, security, fire protection, backup power systems, environmental, data and IT, and full-service design. The renovation included significant safety and environmental improvements; replacement of outdated HVAC, electrical, plumbing, gas, sewer, and water systems; and the installation of a new barrel-vaulted roof over the drill shed.
Key elements of the project included a 41,000-squarefoot readiness center addition and a 140,787-squarefoot alteration of the existing readiness center and vehicle maintenance shop, which supports operational management, preventative maintenance, and scheduled repairs on all vehicles assigned to the facility.
Award Winner | Excellence in Partnership Award from the Associated General Contractors of New York State.
Assembly Hall
Facility Maintenance Shop
Power & Manufacturing Sector
Transmission, Distribution, Storage Improvement Charge (TDSIC) 2.0
Indiana
CHA completed CenterPoint Energy’s Transmission, Distribution, Storage Improvement Charge (TDSIC) 2.0 Distribution Engineering design program within an accelerated time frame, achieving both timeliness and cost efficiency. This project encompassed over 300 projects, comprising a diverse range of overhead, underground, and distribution automation initiatives. The stringent timeline, driven by regulatory filing requirements, necessitated 60 field inspections and 60 construction-ready design packages within six months, in addition to the 240 other projects requiring preliminary design packages and estimates.
When CHA was awarded the project, our team quickly mobilized resources by reallocating staff from other teams
and offices, accelerating production rates to meet the demanding schedule. The scope of CHA’s responsibilities entailed comprehensive field walk-downs for each circuit/ project utilizing IKE 4 devices, session edits, and design implementation within CenterPoint’s GIS software. Additionally, CHA performed pole loading assessments for all poles using Pole Foreman, facilitated material population in SAP, generated CADD prints for field deployment, and meticulously conducted a robust QA/QC process for each circuit/project.
For most of the 300 projects, CHA collaborated closely with CenterPoint’s distribution engineering staff to develop an initial master plan and scope tailored to effectively meet the specific program requirements.
CHA’s Utility Market will now be known as the Energy Infrastructure Market to better reflect our growth and broad service offerings for energy transmission and distribution. NEWS
Infrastructure Sector
The Underline
Miami, FL
The Underline is a 10-mile linear park beneath Miami’s Metrorail, from the Miami River to Dadeland South. It is a visionary project designed to rejuvenate underused city land and reimagine it into a vibrant urban trail, park, and hub for living art. CHA provided design-build services for design and project management for phase 2, a 2.14-mile stretch that connects SW 13th St. to SW 19th Ave.
Once completed, the Underline will be the primary bicycle and pedestrian connection from downtown Miami, the University of Miami, historic sites, and SW Miami-Dade neighborhoods. This newly envisioned space has created a community studio for artists and a safer, healthier, and more engaged community gathering point that builds connections in the community, promotes wellness, and encourages sustainable mobility.
CHAngemakers NEWS
THOUGHT LEADERS
Transportation leaders shared valuable insights at the Purdue Road School Conference in March.
Read more here.
Embodying the principles of urban innovation, ecological sustainability, and artistic patronage, the Underline epitomizes Miami’s dedication to nurturing a city that is alive, interconnected, and dedicated to its residents’ well-being. Notable project components include native landscaping; the addition of 100,000 native plants and 1,000 trees to attract butterflies, bees, and birds; limestone boulders and benches; hydration stations, an ADA-accessible playground; bike racks; dog-friendly features; free wi-fi service; public art spaces; and areas for public events and programs.
Beyond its functional role of providing non-vehicular transportation alternatives, the Underline is a world-class public space that elevates Miami’s cultural environment.
THOUGHT LEADERS
Experts were featured throughout the program at the Florida Water Resources Conference.
Read more here.
ARTICLE/BLOG
Deadline Met: Charting the Path Forward for Lead Service Line Inventory.
Read more here.
ARTICLE/BLOG
Pogues Run Greenway: Illuminating the Path to Innovation.
Read more here.
Rendering: Bike and pedestrian trail beside community space.
Rendering: The Underline below the Miami Metrorail.
REGULATORY ALERT: NERC COMPLIANCE
In 2025, the North American Electric Reliability Corporation’s (NERC’s) compliance landscape is evolving to address emerging risks and enhance the reliability of the bulk power system (BPS). Key areas to be aware of:
1. Cybersecurity: NERC has updated its Critical Infrastructure Protection (CIP) standards to strengthen defenses against cyber threats. New requirements focus on access control, network segmentation, incident response, and supply chain risk management.
2. Data and Information Management: Standards such as IRO-010-5 and TOP-003-6.1, effective July 1, 2025, emphasize the specification and collection of data by reliability coordinators and transmission operators to ensure accurate and timely information flow within the BPS.
3. Integration of Inverter-Based Resources (IBRs): Compliance requirements for IBRs, including solar and wind, are being updated to reflect their growing role in the grid. Standards PRC-028-1, 029-1, and 030-1 must be met by May 2025.
4. Extreme Weather Preparedness: NERC is enhancing standards to improve grid resilience against extreme weather events, including better planning and response protocols to mitigate impacts.
5. Physical Security: Updated standards focus on protecting critical infrastructure from physical threats, including enhanced security measures and incident response plans.
6. Supply Chain Risk Management: NERC CIP013 is increasing scrutiny on supply chain vulnerabilities to ensure the reliability and security of the BPS.
7. Facility Ratings: FAC-008 ensures that facility ratings are determined based on equipment capabilities. Violations often stem from inaccurate ratings due to insufficient internal controls. Establishing a sampling program to verify NERC FAC-008 compliance is a proactive risk-based strategy to ensure that facility ratings are accurate, consistent, and aligned with your documented methodology.
These updates reflect NERC’s commitment to proactively address risks to the reliability and security of the power grid. Staying informed is crucial for compliance and grid stability. With a continuous improvement mindset, focusing on delivering value for our customers, CHA offers NERC compliance services.
For more information, contact Frank Peverly, PMP, at fpeverly@chasolutions.com
Design Technology in Engineering TECHNOLOGY
In the evolving field of engineering, design technology has become an integral part of the design, project management, and decision-making processes. Technological advancements are streamlining workflows and enhancing precision, efficiency and collaboration.
A Case Study in Fishers, Indiana
CHA has been collaborating on a project with the Stevanato Group in Fishers, IN, which exemplifies the transformative impact of design technology in engineering. This project involves converting an existing warehouse space into approximately 80,000 square feet of cleanroom production suites, mechanical spaces, and office areas. Once complete, this expansion will produce tens of millions of autoinjector pens annually for a portfolio of medications.
This project highlights the importance of interdisciplinary coordination in the fast-paced life-science/pharmaceutical sector. The use of modern design technology has been instrumental in achieving this coordination. CHA’s design team harnessed technology by leveraging tools like Revit, Navisworks, Recap, and AutoCAD within the Autodesk Construction Cloud (ACC) so all disciplines were synchronized, minimizing errors and maximizing efficiency, ultimately benefiting the client’s timeline and budget.
The global nature of this project required effective collaboration across different countries. The use of 3D facility scans and BIM
CHA was recently honored with a 2024 Environmental Business Achievement Award in Information Technology. This award was presented by the Environmental Business Journal.
collaboration provided a means of visual and real-time interaction with the project team worldwide. This global collaboration ensured the project adhered to the highest standards and incorporated diverse perspectives. Once complete, this project will mark a substantial addition to Stevanato Group’s product portfolio as well represent another large investment in the rapidly growing city of Fishers, Indiana.
Enhancing Design with Technology
As this case study illustrates, design technology tools have revolutionized how engineers approach and execute projects. By leveraging advanced software and platforms, engineers can create highly detailed and accurate design models that facilitate better planning and execution. CHA utilizes several key design technology tools:
• Revit enables the creation of detailed 3D models encompassing architecture, structure, and MEP systems. This comprehensive approach ensures that all design elements are integrated and cohesive.
• Navisworks is employed for effective collaboration between various disciplines. By amalgamating different
New Burlington Office NEWS
design models into a single view, Navisworks allows for clash detection and coordination, preventing potential issues before construction begins.
• Recap is utilized to view and place point cloud models, which are essentially 3D scans of existing conditions. They accurately represent the space’s current state and confirm that the new designs fit seamlessly within the existing structure.
• AutoCAD is used for select detailing and is renowned for its precision and versatility, making it an indispensable tool for detailed engineering work.
These tools are unified within the ACC, fostering a collaborative virtual design environment and allowing CHA’s in-house design team and external partners, including subcontractors, vendors, and builders, to work together seamlessly.
Improving Project Management
The use of design technology extends beyond creating design models; it is also pivotal in project management. For example, early and frequent BIM collaboration was
(Continue on next page)
CHA has opened a new office in Burlington, MA, to support its growing project portfolio and tap into the wealth of engineering talent in the greater Boston area. The office is located northwest of Boston on the I-95 “Inner Loop.”
Read more here.
essential in our case study project. This approach provided a platform for capturing real-time client and contractor feedback, ensuring all stakeholders were aligned throughout the project’s lifecycle. Key benefits of design technology in project management include enhanced communication, real-time updates for agility, and risk mitigation to identify and resolve potential issues before they become costly problems.
Informed Decision Making
Informed decision-making is a cornerstone of successful engineering projects. Design technology provides the data and insights necessary for making well-informed choices. In our case study project, 3D facility scans enabled visual collaboration with a project team spanning three countries. This global perspective ensured that all voices were heard and the best possible decisions were made.
Data-Driven Insights:
• Comprehensive Data: Design technology tools collect and analyze extensive data, providing a holistic view of the project, enabling engineers to make decisions based on facts and evidence rather than assumptions.
• Scenario Analysis: Advanced design software allows for scenario analysis, where different design options can be evaluated for feasibility and impact.
Note: The images shown are design models taken from CHA’s ongoing detailed engineering of a project with Stevanato Group in Fishers, Indiana.
• Client-Centric Approach: By incorporating client feedback through BIM collaboration, the project team can align the design with the client’s vision and requirements.
Design technology has become an indispensable tool in engineering, enhancing design, project management, and informed decision-making. By embracing modern design tools and fostering interdisciplinary and global collaboration, engineering projects can achieve higher precision, efficiency, and success.
For more information, contact Arjun Singh, Manager of Design Technology at asingh@chasolutions.com; Stephen Zebrowski, Manager of VDC at szebrowski@chasolutions.com; Jack Wilke, Project Manager at jwilke@chasolutions. com; James An, Sr. BIM Coordinator at jamesan@chasolutions.com.
Phil Stevens Named Sector President for Infrastructure
CHA has named Phil Stevens, Ph.D., PE, Executive Vice President and Sector President for Infrastructure, overseeing transportation, water and aviation. Phil succeeds John Hensley, PE, who retired after eight years of service to CHA.
Read more here.
HEALTH & SAFETY
All Eyes on Safety: Eight Tips to Keep Your Eyes Safe at Work
Keeping your eyes safe at work is a shared responsibility between employers and employees. Follow these tips to keep your vision safe on the job.
1. Use the right eye protection: From safety glasses and goggles to face shields and prescription safety eyewear, make sure you and your employer have the right equipment on hand.
2. Contact lenses are not eye protection: Do not rely on your contacts for protection; always have glasses available if you need to remove them.
3. Identify risks in your work areas: Are there risks in the immediate area, such as flying debris, chemicals, or intense light? If so, be prepared with appropriate protection.
4. Maintain eye safety equipment: Inspect your eyewear for scratches, stretched-out or missing straps, missing side shields, or other damage. Stop work and replace immediately, and verify the correct fit, which is key to protecting your eyes.
5. Minimize eye strain: Computer users should be encouraged to take regular breaks to reduce screen time, which causes eye strain. To avoid eye strain, apply the 20/20/20 rule: For every 20 minutes of computer time, look at something about 20 feet (6m) away for 20 seconds.
6. Make ergonomic adjustments: Your workstation should allow you to read the screen without leaning or bending. Adjust your chair and monitor if needed.
7. Adequate lighting is essential: Adjust lighting for reading and different tasks.
8. Training, coaching, and awareness communications: Regularly coach and train your employees on proper eye safety, provide appropriate eye protection equipment and first aid supplies, and share best practices.
For more information, contact Anthony Tremblay, Director of Corporate Health and Safety at atremblay@chasolutions.com.
Read more here. CHA Earns Highwire Gold Safety Award for 2025 NEWS
CHA has been awarded a Highwire Gold Safety Award for 2025, reflecting the strength of our safety programs, systems and initiatives.
