U.S. General Services Administration

Edward T. Gignoux Federal Court House Renovations

Project at a Glance
Location

Portland, ME

Architect

Rist-Frost-Shumway Engineering

Project Type

Renovation

Project Overview

  • Replacement of dated HVAC systems with modern energy efficient equipment to support a goal of carbon neutrality by 2040
  • Upgrade of the existing fire suppression system and replacement of the existing analog fire alarm system with a modern digital system
  • Thorough phasing and logistics to minimize disruptions to the occupied, historic Italian Renaissance Revival style building

To support a carbon neutrality target of 2040, the Gignoux Federal Court House is undergoing upgrades to repair and replace the historic building’s deficient HVAC and fire alarm systems. The conventional HVAC system will be replaced with new air-to-water heat pumps within the confines of the existing limitations of the historical building to prepare for all-electric power. Project scope includes roof work and the rebuild of existing shafts to support new equipment, terminal units, ductwork, piping, dedicated outdoor air systems (DOAS), air handling units (AHU), gas boilers, pumps and digital controls throughout the building.

Thoroughly planned phasing and logistics will ensure absolutely no interruptions to the court’s critical operations during the construction phase in the occupied building, including considerations for safety, security, air quality and maintaining egress. Located in downtown Portland, the court house is a classic Italian Renaissance Revival style building entirely faced with New England granite. The project is utilizing Inflation Reduction Act funding for low embodied carbon scope and High Performance Green Building improvements.