Electrical Infrastructure Upgrades at U.S. Air Force Academy Airfield Facilities

The U.S. Air Force Academy was experiencing disruptions to flights at its Airfield Operations due to unexpected power outages. Weston Solutions, Inc. (WESTON^®) was hired by the Air Force Center for Environmental Excellence (AFCEE) to manage the construction process to improve electrical infrastructure by upgrading the airfield’s existing power source and distribution networks.

The WESTON-Colorado Springs Academy construction management team was composed of employees that have either worked at the Air Force Academy, attended the academy, or served at nearby Air Force bases. This seasoned team provided WESTON with valuable insight into academy operations and enabled WESTON to anticipate academy needs, which aided in the execution of a successful construction project.

WESTON Reevaluates Cable Plans

After studying site plans, WESTON observed discrepancies in the amount and length of cable that required removal and replacement, and established a more accurate assessment of the required cable quantities.  By switching the contract from a firm fixed-price to a more flexible cost-plus fixed-fee contract during the proposal stage, the risk associated with the cabling uncertainty was reduced for all parties. As it turned out, the increase in cable length was allocated in the proposal and saved AFCEE and the academy from preparing a contract modification.

Upgrades Improve Airfield Operations

Under this delivery order, WESTON managed the planning, installation, and commissioning of the supporting electrical system for Airfield Operations facilities. The scope of work included installing diesel-powered auto-start generators, associated switchgear, and more than 6,500 linear feet of distribution cabling—collectively upgrading the electrical infrastructure for five academy facilities. The WESTON Team and project stakeholders worked very closely and scheduled the power outages at times that would not affect Airfield Operations.

Upon encountering unmarked utilities, the WESTON Team conferred with base personnel and re-sited the construction location of the generator building. WESTON excavated for the building slab, prepared formwork, poured the foundation, installed pre-cast side panels, constructed the enclosure, laid underground electrical conduit from the generator building into Building 9026, backfilled, and replaced sod in impacted areas. The team placed a new electrical panel for tie-in of the new auto-start generator, then assessed and conducted necessary repairs to the government-furnished generator.

Dedicated to going above and beyond expectations to complete this project, WESTON completed all project work 4 weeks ahead of schedule. The ownership and pride in workmanship displayed on this project motivated the Academy to assign additional projects to WESTON.

“Working near a major aircraft taxi lane, under adverse weather conditions and abnormal duty hours, the project was completed professionally and more than 30 days ahead of schedule.”

—Jerry Miranda, Chief, Airfield Management, U.S. Air Force Academy