DBR provided MEP engineering services for LPA in the design and construction of Alamo Heights High School’s new 72,800-square-foot athletics complex. The project was part of Alamo Heights ISD’s 2017 bond program.
The athletics complex replaced the original competition gymnasium, The Mule Dome, and incorporated an existing second-floor auxiliary gymnasium, The Sky Gym, which was constructed in 2010. The new complex included all new locker rooms, weight rooms, and training spaces for athletics, PE, dance, cheer, and JROTC. The new complex was integrated with a new home-side grandstand and press box for the Henry B. Orem Stadium. The result is a state-of-the-art athletic center that is actively used all day by students for athletics, physical education, and extracurricular activities.
The high school campus is served by central boiler and chiller plants. The new chiller plant, also designed by LPA and DBR in an earlier phase of the bond program, includes high-efficiency chillers and thermal (ice) storage to limit the peak electrical demand and thereby reduce utility costs. The new chiller plant’s proximity to the football stadium required careful planning to ensure cooling tower noise was not disruptive to the spectators. The HVAC system incorporates energy recovery units to efficiently manage the high demands of ventilation for athletic spaces. Alamo Heights ISD has invested in solar energy systems on their campuses, so rooftop mechanical equipment was strategically located to maximize the clear roof area for future solar installations.
High-efficiency LED lighting and controls were coordinated with LPA’s interior designers for maximum aesthetics and efficiency. Natural daylighting and daylight sensing controls allow for reduced lighting energy.
Construction costs were kept under control by collaborating with the construction manager at risk, Joeris General Contractors, during the design phase.
DBR’s collaboration with Alamo Heights ISD and LPA continues as construction is beginning on the next major phase of work at Alamo Heights High School. The new project, part of the 2023 bond program, will replace the original classroom and administration wings of the high school building.
