The project encompassed renovating Building 22, an occupied 2-story structure with clerestory glass roof, at the Washington Navy Yard to create a new Fitness Center complex.

Gilford’s initial efforts were to subdivide the space vertically to create a mezzanine. This was a significant steel erection effort to support the structural load of the mezzanine’s planned end use. Twenty-seven inch deep wide flange steel beams, each weighing 94 pounds per linear foot were required to span the approximate 60-foot wide unsupported bay. The massive beams required custom fabrication directly from the steel mill, transportation coordination, and a considerable construction erection effort. A running track and racquetball courts were subsequently constructed on the mezzanine of this recreational facility.

In the second phase of the project, Gilford constructed a 5,260 sf Fitness Center on the lower level including men’s and women’s locker rooms, shower rooms, weight rooms, restrooms, reception area, etc.

Close coordination was required amongst the architect, structural engineer, fabricator, shipping company, and installation contractor as well as extensive follow-up to ensure all schedule parameters were met.