C.W. Driver, an AGC of California member, has completed construction on the newly renovated Storm and Nasatir Halls complex at the San Diego State University (SDSU) campus. The project includes the 100,000-sq-foot renovation and 30,000-sq-foot expansion of the existing complex built in 1957. Designed by LPA Inc. and registered as LEED® Gold, the $73-million complex now offers program space with upgraded technologies for eight academic departments, faculty offices, and academic and research laboratories.

"A project of this scope has capitalized on C.W. Driver’s higher education construction expertise to create a state-of-the-art facility," explained Hank Withaar, project executive at C.W. Driver.  "The renovations to the older buildings also allow the campus to employ technologies and resources that will stand the test of time."

C.W. Driver’s scope of the project included the removal of hazardous materials, surgical and mass demolition, and structural upgrades. The renovation upgrades assisted the complex in meeting current health and safety code standards as well as correcting deferred maintenance issues, improving water and energy conservation. To comply with standards, C.W. Driver delivered the provision of new code-compliant HVAC systems; and technology and electrical upgrades, such as new fire alarm and security systems. New elevators, ramps, site work and door operators were also included to ensure wheelchair access.

To achieve LEED® Gold certification, C.W. Driver implemented construction site recycling and waste management, utilization of recycled materials, enhanced commissioning, and water-efficient plumbing and landscaping. Additionally to improve the building’s energy efficiency, new lighting and ceiling systems were constructed with energy-efficient glazing systems.  The sustainable upgrades to the complex will save the university millions of dollars in deferred and ongoing maintenance.  

C.W. Driver’s work on the SDSU Storm and Nasatir building complex joins a number of sustainable projects in the firm’s higher education portfolio including the 118,000-sq-ft Student Recreation Center and the 166,000-sq-ft Valley Performing Arts Center at California State University, Northridge both projects achieved LEED® Gold certification; the 19,000-sq-ft Alumni Center at the University of California, Irvine which achieved LEED® Silver certification; the 36,000-sq-ft Torrey Pines Center North at University of California, San Diego which has also achieved LEED® Silver certification; and the 70,000-sq-ft Segerstrom Science Center at Azusa Pacific University, which has also achieved LEED® Gold certification.