Ferguson Enterprises Distribution Center Expansion - Richland, Washington

Ferguson Enterprises, Inc. (FEI) is the nation’s largest wholesale plumbing distributor. Our team was selected by FEI based on our superb performance on previous distribution centers across the US.

 

The first phase of this distribution center in 2003 with Mr. Bowlin serving as the Project Manager. Two years later, when FEI decide to enlarge the facility with a 295,000 GSF expansion, our Design-Build team returned intact to deliver a fast track solution. The total facility size is now 645,000 GSF.

 

This facility comprises a conventional structural frame, non-load bearing precast concrete wall panels with insulated metal panels above 14’ aff, and high tolerance floor slabs which average ff=50, fl=35, and fmin=70 in the VNA area.

 

This project’s main challenge was the fact that the sitework and foundations had to be completed in a harsh winter environment to meet the client’s completion date. In order to excavate footings in the frozen tundra, our team first had to use heating blankets to warm the subgrade to allow the equipment to penetrate the surface. Cold weather concrete procedures were following in strict accordance with ACI. Because of the extreme cold, heating blankets powered by generators were again used to maintain the proper cure temperatures.

 

The client was very satisfied with our performance, and enthusiastically provided a letter of commendation. The State of Washington was also very pleased – the Governor attended the groundbreaking ceremony.