Eastern Michigan University Strong Hall Renovation

Key challenges included:

• Rebuilding all electrical, HVAC, and life safety systems within an aging structure
• Coordinating complex MEP systems across renovation and new construction simultaneously
• Navigating underground infrastructure conflicts impacting incoming power
• Managing campus disruption, including road closures and active student traffic
• Delivering within an aggressive schedule tied to academic calendars

Every decision had to balance performance, flexibility, and long-term operational efficiency. HVE led the complete electrical scope from design through commissioning, acting as a true design-assist partner responsible for design, engineering, construction, installation, and commissioning of the electrical systems.

Scope included:

• New electrical power distribution system and medium voltage switchgear including incoming medium voltage distribution
• Interior and exterior lighting systems
• Power, lighting, and communications for labs, classrooms, and offices
• Fire alarm and clock systems
• Integration of advanced lighting controls and energy-saving technologies

The team also supported lifecycle cost analysis, constructability reviews, BIM coordination, and full project commissioning, as well as schedule evaluation and construction phase management.

One standout feature was the installation of custom “light constellations”, where LED fixtures were precisely laid out 30 feet in the air to replicate star patterns, requiring exact coordination between digital modeling and field execution.

HVE’s role extended far beyond installation. Through early involvement, the team helped shape the project’s direction, identifying cost savings, improving constructability, and optimizing system performance.

Key contributions included:

• Full BIM modeling of every conduit, fixture, and system for clash-free coordination
• Value engineering and lifecycle cost analysis to improve long-term efficiency
• Pull planning with all trades, creating shared ownership of schedule and execution
• Redesign of the incoming duct bank to avoid underground conflicts while protecting structural integrity
• Integration of arc flash mitigation systems into medium voltage equipment

HVE also implemented advanced lighting controls, including daylight harvesting, occupancy sensors, and centralized emergency lighting testing, improving both energy performance and operational efficiency while contributing to improved workflow, safety, quality, and reduced job site waste through collaborative coordination with all project stakeholders. The project delivered a modern academic environment built for flexibility, efficiency, and long-term performance.

• Completed on time and on budget ahead of the Winter 2019 academic term
• Achieved LEED Silver standards with energy-efficient systems and controls
• Reduced operational costs through improved electrical and lighting performance
• Delivered flexible learning environments adaptable to evolving STEM programs
• Minimized campus disruption through coordinated planning and execution

Upon completion, Strong Hall marked the third and final phase of Eastern Michigan University’s Science Complex and now houses the Departments of Geography/Geology, Physics, and Astronomy.

The building now supports collaborative learning, advanced research, and dynamic classroom configurations. Strong Hall went from an outdated academic facility to a modern, high-performance learning environment at the core of EMU’s campus.