Project Description: SEG served as the Prime Contractor on this design-build project to replace 37 aging air handling units (AHUs) and associated equipment at the historic E. Barrett Prettyman Courthouse and Annex in Washington, DC. The project aimed to improve air quality in compliance with COVID-19 safety protocols and address ongoing HVAC system failures.

 

Work included full design, demolition, and installation of new AHUs, piping, steam lines, valves, controls, and integration with the recently upgraded Niagara N4 Building Automation System. The project also involved replacing 152 zone damper controls, conducting load calculations, and evaluating duct conditions. All work was performed while maintaining building occupancy and security, requiring night and weekend work to minimize disruption to court operations. Additional scope included hazardous materials assessments (asbestos, lead, PCBs), coordination with the GSA Regional Historic Preservation Office, and compliance with sustainability and energy efficiency goals—including MERV 13 filtration, VFD installation, and 70% construction waste diversion.