Overview

Southland completed the design-build replacement of three air handling units (AHUs) for the Cerritos College Administration Building in Norwalk, California.

The 30,000-square-foot building houses the administration staff, who assist students with registration, class scheduling, and other campus services.

Our Approach

This project was owner-direct, with the building remaining occupied throughout. To ensure occupant comfort, temporary cooling was provided. The scope included the demolition and removal of an abandoned chiller, cooling tower, and three multi-zone air handling units (AHUs), along with ductwork and chilled and heating hot water piping inside the mechanical room.

Southland installed three new multi-zone AHUs, ductwork, chilled water piping, heating hot water piping, and Delta Controls. Since as-built documents were not available, Southland relied on existing equipment models and site survey data to determine load requirements and select appropriate equipment.

With the mechanical room located in the basement and without direct access for moving equipment, Southland's management and field team decided the most efficient and least disruptive method was to cut an access hole in the roof and use a crane.

Result

Completed in January 2023, the project was delivered on time, without disrupting occupant comfort or productivity, directly to the owner. By collaborating with the director of facilities, Southland ensured a solution that met all stakeholders' needs. This collaborative approach has led to the successful completion of multiple projects on campus, including additional mechanical retrofit projects.