After performing an initial Feasibility Study for the City of Burlington’s Transit Operations Centre, it was clear it didn’t have the space required to grow. We developed a creative plan, involving a renovation and addition to address its need for space and to do so in an intelligent and sustainable way.

In our initial study, we performed a full building audit and life-cycle cost analysis. We interviewed managers and staff, reviewed projected growth figures and schematic design solutions. We did a careful examination of the site, building systems and related functions. Further, we provided the City with an operating cost comparison for a conventional building versus a LEED sustainable structure. As a result, we were able to improve the existing facility, and through expansion, create a more productive and healthy work environment. We increased energy efficiency and reduced its overall impact on the environment. Our report incorporated a 10 year, three-part, phasing strategy including costing.

The scope of work involved two areas, the administration and bus maintenance and storage areas.  The administrative spaces include offices, board room, dispatch room, fitness room, lockers, lunch room, training room and IT.  In the transportation hub, we included storage for 74 buses (with another 34 by 2026), maintenance space, equipment, inspection areas, fueling areas and wash bays.

• Efficient flow and storage of vehicles
  
• Efficient washing and refueling of vehicles
  
• Complete site rejuvenation
  
• Bioswale for water cleaning
  
• 45% better energy performance than the referenced MNECB building
  

• Energy Recovery Ventilators on all air handling systems
  
• Over 20% of the building materials contained recycled content
  
• Over 30% of the building materials were regionally manufactured
  
• 60% reduction in indoor water use
  
• Average water consumption reduced annually by approximately 2,800 m3