Thomas G. Gallagher

The new Weld Hill research and administration building will greatly strengthen the Arboretum’s botanical research capabilities through the creation of a new state-of-the-art greenhouse and laboratory facility. The new 43,000SF building houses: twelve greenhouses, plant growth chambers, laboratory rooms, laboratory support rooms, as well as offices and meeting rooms. 

Thomas G. Gallagher was hired by Lee Kennedy Co. to produce the coordination and installation of the HVAC, plumbing and fire protection systems.  The Heating and cooling dynamics will be outfitted by a closed-loop, geothermal heat exchanger system that will be constructed underground. After construction this area will be restored to its existing landscape of meadow and scattered trees for neighbors and visitors to enjoy. 

The HVAC scope work includes the furnishing of the geothermal system which consists of approximately eighty eight vertical “wells,” each being approximately 500 feet deep. This creates a closed loop system which will transfer thermal (heat) energy between the steady temperature of earth and the building, providing heat for cooler weather and cooling for warmer weather. Several system components to complete the system include: eight indoor water to water heat pump units, (generate the chilled and hot water requirements for the building’s HVAC demand) four pipe fan coil units, pumps, heat recovery units and DDC controls.

The ground work for the plumbing includes: a RO/DI system, dual containment piping for transgenic waste, PH neutralization system, compressed air vacuum, storm drainage, sanitary waste and vents as well as water and gas piping.

The facility has a wet and dry pre-action fire protections system installed throughout the building.