Behavioral Health Services North

Project overview

Sage Engineering Associates, LLP provided mechanical, electrical, plumbing, fire protection, controls, and technology engineering services for the approximately 12,500 square-foot expansion and renovation of an outpatient behavioral health facility. The expansion increased the facility's capacity to provide behavioral health services through new clinical and examination rooms, adult and child/family group treatment spaces, intake and consultation rooms, patient waiting areas, laboratory and medication support spaces, and expanded staff and administrative areas.

Engineering systems were designed to support a comfortable, secure, and supportive environment for patients and staff while providing flexibility to accommodate evolving behavioral healthcare needs. The HVAC design provided enhanced filtration, humidity control, and individual zoning to address the varied occupancy and operating requirements of clinical, counseling, group treatment, and support spaces. Additional improvements included a high-efficiency condensing boiler plant, new plumbing and fire protection systems, expanded electrical distribution, high-efficiency lighting and controls, fire alarm, telecommunications, and building automation systems.

Safety and security were integral to the behavioral health design. The project incorporated controlled access, staff duress alarms, lockdown capabilities, and integrated video surveillance to support staff safety and facility operations.

A key component of the project was the integration of the new clinical expansion with the existing occupied facility. The design included connections and modifications to existing utilities, life-safety, communications, and building systems, with construction coordinated to maintain ongoing facility operations.