Spring 2024 Newsletter
Atriax-DLR Mentor-Protégé Agreement Leads to New JV
The SBA approved the formation of a Mentor-Protégé Agreement between DLR Group, an architectural and engineering firm with an international presence, and Atriax, an architectural and engineering service-disabled veteran-owned small business (SDVOSB) firm in Hickory, NC. The Mentor-Protégé agreement lays out the responsibilities of the firms in working together to create business opportunities. It also provides the foundation for forming a joint venture where the firms will pursue new federal work as a single entity.
Atriax Project Snapshots
Tuscaloosa and West Palm Beach Electronic Health Record Modernization
Both projects provided the design necessary for the infrastructure needed for these VA medical centers to begin construction in support of the Electronic Health Records Modernization Program. Both required new data center buildings and substantial fiber duct bank trenching throughout their campuses. The Tuscaloosa design has been signed and sealed thanks to hard work from the entire team. Accolades go to Justin Keener for designing two miles of required duct bank and for his quick response in designing a gravity-fed sanitary line in response to changing client requirements.
Mary Moorer's was responsible for corralling our entire design team, compiling the 700+ drawing sheets for submittals, making sure everyone stayed synced and responsive to schedule, and that the team turned in a quality product. Her attention to detail is her superpower.
Craig Rona teamed with other associates and architects to design both data center buildings. Tuscaloosa wanted their data center as small as possible, which created a challenge for us to meet all of the EHRM, Office of Information Technology, and Physical Security and Resiliency Design Manual requirements. In designing both buildings, Craig showcased his Revit skills in de-conflicting all utilities for the new structures. These projects demonstrate our first wholesale use of Revit for major new construction.
Topeka Roads, Parking & Sidewalks
This project at the Colmery O'Neil VAMC in Topeka, KS, was made possible by Infrastructure Law Funding, which requires construction within a tight timetable. We are currently at 95% design and on schedule with these large-scale campus improvements. A special thanks to project manager Ernest Davis who dove into all aspects of this project including permitting and specifications and Fernando Morales, whose assistance was essential for keeping the project moving along.
The Contracting Officer for the project reported that "Atriax, PLLC's great attention to regulatory details were integral to defining what the problems are, its severity, how to approach it, and the best way to pursue the station's vision."
Veterans' Canteen Service Store Remodel
Architect Christopher Cervantes created a walk-through Revit simulation of the redesign for our client using Twinmotion software. Together, with interior designer Jody Blake, the VA was able to see what the finished design would look like. This project is 95% designed. Since this store will stay in operation during construction, a temporary store also had to be designed and a phasing plan developed.
Atriax Building Solutions (ABS) Project Highlights
Blue Ridge Parkway Projects
Designs are complete and construction will begin during April and May on the following Blue Ridge Parkway projects:
--ADA trails and other pedestrian access at Bass Lake in Blowing Rock
--Addition of new picnic tables and concrete pads at the Blue Ridge Parkway Visitor Center in Asheville
--Wayside signage at Craggy Gardens overlook in Black Mountain
Conover Ale House
Design and permitting of a new craft beer and wine store in Conover, NC is complete. Demolition and construction should begin in April.
Team Updates
Long-Time Atriax Employee Turns Sights on New Adventures
Bob Sinclair, a man who has worn many hats at Atriax, most recently as an integral part of our Executive staff, has decided that after 18.5 years, he's going to focus on his first love - music. A talented musician and member of The Big Deals, Bob has also been responsible for running the City of Hickory's Summer Concert Under the Sails music series. In addition to his other duties at Atriax, Bob was a project manager who was popular with his federal clients for his unfailing enthusiasm and communication skills. He will be sorely missed, but we are excited to see what this next phase of his life brings.