Department of Veterans Affairs

Canandaigua VAMC

Canandaigua, New York

Campus Fire Station Design

Project Objective

This project was undertaken to renovate the existing fire station at the Canandaigua VA Medical Center campus. Originally built in 1932, this approximately 6,000 ft² single-story building was reconstructed to serve as a dedicated fire station, having previously housed the campus Fire Department and Grounds and Transportation Work Center. Completed in late 2024, the project’s goal was to deliver a state-of-the-art facility supporting 24/7 operations while enhancing workspace efficiency and functionality.

Unique Project Features

The design addressed the challenges of renovating a historic structure to accommodate modern emergency services. Key features included:

  • Integration of specialized spaces for vehicle maintenance, equipment storage, and personnel operations.
  • Addition of a second floor for utility space, preserving the building’s footprint.
  • Historic architectural elements to complement the VA Medical Center campus.
  • Custom steel trusses, Structural Insulated Panels (SIPs), and Hollow Core Concrete Planks for enhanced structural integrity.

Encorus Group Solution

Encorus Group approached this project with a focus on engineering excellence and attention to detail. Our team worked closely with the VA to ensure the fire station met operational and safety requirements while maintaining the character of the historic structure. The solution included:

  • Detailed building use programming to optimize the layout within the finite space.
  • Civil site improvements, including reconfigured roadways and enhanced stormwater management.
  • Comprehensive utility design for power, data, water, sewer, and steam connections.
  • A robust fire suppression system and master fire alarm control center for safety.
  • Advanced HVAC systems featuring vehicle exhaust ventilation, steam-to-water heat exchangers, and a digital building management system.
  • Electrical systems, including redundant power sources, lighting design, and power distribution tailored to critical facility needs.
  • Communications and security systems for access control and facility monitoring.
 
 
 
 
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Specific Project Tasks

  • Building use programming and space optimization.
  • Structural Modifications: Reconstruction of a third of the building and addition of a second floor.
  • Civil and Utility Design: Regrading, stormwater management, and utility connections.
  • Fire Protection Systems: Full fire suppression and alarm system design.
  • HVAC and Exhaust Systems: Enhanced ventilation and air quality controls.
  • Electrical Systems: Lighting, power distribution, and redundant power sources.