Education

JMB Completes Comprehensive Renovation at Wentworth Schumann Library

Wentworth Institute of Technology’s Douglas D. Schumann Library

Wentworth Institute of Technology’s Douglas D. Schumann Library

Boston – In a three-month “summer slammer” project, J&M Brown Company, Inc. (JMB), of Jamaica Plain, completed the comprehensive electrical, fire alarm, tel/data, and security system renovations at the Wentworth Institute of Technology (WIT) main library — the Douglas D. Schumann Library.

The renovated library, designed by architect Perkins + Will, of Boston, features a modern, open environment design and incorporates building upgrades that focus on sustainability and energy efficiency.

The multifaceted project scope included upgrading the 45,000sf facility’s electrical distribution system, which encompassed installation of all new electrical panels and the removal of old Federal Pacific panels; installation of new energy-efficient LED lighting; installation of a new fire alarm system; and the build-out of 12 conference rooms, inclusive of the installation of the backbone to new audio-visual systems. The library’s comprehensive LED lighting package is integrated with an advanced networked Acuity lighting control system.

J&M Brown served as single-source provider for the Wentworth library renovation, as the NECA contractor’s electrical division provided all electrical and fire alarm upgrades, and JMB’s low-voltage division, Spectrum Integrated Technologies, coordinated and installed the facility’s upgraded tel/data and security systems.

Other members of the team include ARUP, Boston, EE; and Consigli Construction, GC.

To enhance the project’s efficiency and meet WIT’s requirement to have the project completed for the fall semester, during preconstruction, J&M Brown provided extensive planning and CAD coordination for all lighting and conduit pathways.

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J&M Brown managed an IBEW Local 103 field crew of 28 electricians at peak construction.  The project was headed by JMB Project Manager Kimberley Estabrooks, GF Larry Daley and Foremen Larry Daley and Brian Dire. Spectrum IT Vice President Terry Kilduff and PM Jeff Veil headed the security system project with PM Randy Silva leading the tel/data project team.

Commenting on the fast-track nature of the project, PM Estabrooks said, “The project’s most challenging aspect was the short window of time from demo to full completion – demolition began at the end of April and the project was completed by the beginning of August. This included procurement of materials and working in a partially occupied building. The dedication of the field personnel, as well as the management and close coordination across all levels of project team members, including J&M Brown, Consigli, P&W, ARUP and WIT enabled us to meet critical project timeline dates and occupancy requirements.”