San Jose, CA

McEnery Convention Center Expansion and Renovation

Scope

Sustainable

Structural (Design)

Geotechnical Engineering

Structural Engineering

Size

1,300,000 sf

Key Info

- Design-Build

- Cost-cutting approach to meeting strict vibration criteria

- Occupied retrofit

Awards

ENR Best Projects of 2014, Best Project - Sports/Entertainment

Rutherford + Chekene was structural engineer-of-record for the design-build project, which renovated the existing convention center and built a new, two-story addition for exhibits, events and meetings. The project also expanded the existing central utility plant that serves the center. The renovation of the entry plaza and the addition of outdoor terraced plazas blend indoor and outdoor space for building users. Meeting Vibration Mitigation Needs and Cutting Costs for the new ballroom housed on the second floor, the challenge was to meet strict vibration criteria so dancing and dining activities could coexist side-by-side. R+C explored options for mitigating vibration and, working with a leading U.S. floor vibration researcher, developed a solution that reduced steel tonnage and saved money. The design aimed for sustainability in construction and operation.

Jamison Curry

SE

Category
Civic | Cultural

Leavening peerless structural engineering skill with humor, philosophy, people skills and, above all, a consummate understanding of San Francisco's permitting process, [Alan] saw this project through.