Overview

Prime Architects is designing replacement standby power for FCI Three Rivers and its Satellite Camp. An electrical assessment coordinated by Prime rated the facility’s electrical infrastructure “Poor.” The design is phased so the institution stays in operation during construction.

Technical Scope

• Assessment/Pre-design: Electrical assessment of the full FCI and SCP. Site study. Findings report with repair recommendations.
• Electrical: Replace two 1990 Marathon/Detroit 450 kW generators, which provide part-load emergency power only. New generators are sized to power the entire facility. Replace the transfer switch and remove the temporary generator. Adjust and replace breakers. New B-loop wiring. Replace leaking transformers and missing breaker covers. Replace all kitchen panels at the FCI and Camp with proper enclosures.
• Mechanical / Plumbing / Fire Protection: Reroute ductwork, sprinkler piping and water piping out of the space above the main switchgear.
• Site: Generators sit in the Central Utility Plant, outside the secure perimeter at the Federal Prison Camp. Two 10,000-gallon aboveground diesel day tanks sit outside the powerhouse.
• Physical Security: Repairs and equipment are specified to resist inmate sabotage, per BOP guidelines.
• Cost: Cost estimating and value engineering.

Challenge and Solution

The existing generators could carry only part of the facility load. Prime planned a phased replacement that keeps the institution operating throughout construction.