PROJECT OVERVIEW

To provide optimal training for military personnel, the Army constructed a new Regional Simulation Center at Fort Leavenworth, Kans., with precast concrete. The center contains the hardware, software, and technology that simulates a battle. This training allows commanders and their staff to receive simulated battlefield results and other data just as if they were in a real battle.

PRECAST SOLUTION

Four major precast concrete elements are present in the structure. The first is the architectural two-story-tall, load-bearing wall panels. The second is the post-and-beam structure to integrate with the wall panels. Third is the field-topped tees that were used for second floor. Finally, the fourth is the pretopped tees used for roof deck. The typical bay spacing for the project is approximately 36 x 60 ft.

Designer

Jacobs

Engineer

Jacobs

Contractor

Carothers Construction Inc.

Owner

U.S. Army Corps of Engineers

Precast Concrete Producer

MidAmerica Precast

Key Project Attributes

• Project includes a controlled area, simulation communication rooms, simulation suites, secure communication infrastructure, network distribution nodes, operation centers, work cells, classrooms, and administrative offices. Open stairs on the corners of the parking structure reveal lake views.
• One wing of the building is the data center and the other side offices and training rooms, and the two separate functions became a natural divide in the split-level building.
• Government project mandated more robust walls and shell.

Project/Precast Scope

• 36,000 sf
• The precast concrete structure not only had to withstand natural disasters, but the 10-in.-thick solid panels meet anti-terrorism-force protection criteria.
• The 8- to 11-in.-thick walls undulate to hide joints and better replicate the historical character that supports the overall vision for the installation.