Senior Enlisted Academy to be Renovated

From Naval Facilities Engineering Command Mid-Atlantic Public Affairs

NEWPORT, R.I. (NNS) -- Naval Facilities Engineering Command (NAVFAC) Mid-Atlantic awarded a $5.2 million contract April 14 to Cutter Enterprises of Tolland, Conn., for renovations to the U.S. Naval War College Senior Enlisted Academy (SEA), Building 1269, at Naval Station Newport, R.I.

Work to be performed includes replacement of the failed exterior insulation finishing system (EIFS), installation of a new sprinkler system, installation of new fire and smoke detectors, and complete fire alarm upgrades.

"The mission for this project is to provide much needed improvements and repairs to Tomich Hall, Coddington Point, at Naval Station Newport," said James Donahue, NAVFAC Mid-Atlantic architectural branch supervisor for the Northeast Integrated Products Team.

The project also provides an air-conditioning system throughout the building that will meet the Department of Navy's energy efficiency goals as well as cost savings for the life cycle of the facility.

"The architecture/engineering energy study estimates that the building's new fan coil unit system will save approximately $21,000 per year when compared to alternative HVAC systems over a 40 year study life," said Lonnie Johns, NAVFAC Mid-Atlantic design manager and architect. "This is about a $1 million life cycle cost savings."

Johns adds that other energy saving features used for this project are occupancy sensors for lighting, photo cells for outdoor lighting control and Variable Frequency Drives (VFD) to control fans and motors.

The existing auditorium will also be renovated, complete with new seating and finishes, and an outdoor plaza at the facility will be restored.

The building presently functions as berthing for SEA students and also houses both classrooms and administrative space.

Renovation of the SEA with updated features will help the SEA accomplish its mission to strengthen senior enlisted commitment to professional excellence and mission accomplishment through education in communication skills, leadership and management, national security affairs, Navy programs and physical fitness.

NAVFAC manages the planning, design, construction, contingency engineering, real estate, environmental, and public works support for U.S. Navy shore facilities around the world, providing the Navy's forces with the operating, expeditionary, support and training bases they need.

Work will be performed in Newport, R.I. and is scheduled to begin in May. Expected completion date is July 2012.