The Nanaimo Correctional Centre Replacement project renews the existing facility through innovative, sustainable design, modernizing the complex to house 220 inmates across varied security levels in a campus-like setting. The design prioritizes the seamless integration of mechanical and electrical systems, balancing security needs with sustainability strategies. A collaborative design-build approach with Stuart Olson Construction, MCW Mechanical and Electrical, Arcadis Architects, PML Mechanical, and Canem Electric addressed challenges, such as servicing multiple buildings from a centralized facility while ensuring system security and reliability. Solutions like prefabricated, secure mechanical closets for each cell area were implemented for easy maintenance and safety. Energy-efficient mechanical systems, including Energy Recovery Ventilators, Variable Refrigerant Flow systems, and Air Source Heat Pumps, significantly reduce carbon emissions and energy use. The electrical design features a four-tiered power system with a standby generator, life-safety backup, and redundancies to ensure operational continuity. Environmental sustainability was achieved through reductions in energy consumption, carbon footprint, and pollution, with HVAC and power systems exceeding ASHRAE 90.1 standards. Passive cooling, heat recovery, and redundant systems ensure continuous operation during disruptions. The facility fosters community engagement through specialized rehabilitation spaces, educational programs, and respect for cultural practices, such as a dedicated smudging room. Inclusivity, safety, and community impact are key components of the design, ensuring a lasting positive effect.

The NCC Replacement project showcases a collaborative design-build approach, integrating expertise from Stuart Olson Construction, MCW Mechanical and Electrical, Arcadis Architects, PML Mechanical, and Canem Electric. Our team prioritized technical excellence, sustainability, and innovation, integrating robust mechanical and electrical systems to meet security requirements and environmental benchmarks. Centralizing infrastructure addressed the challenge of securely servicing multiple buildings. Solutions like prefabricated mechanical/electrical closets in inmate areas ensured secure, simplified maintenance. Mechanical designs used advanced technologies, such as Energy Recovery Ventilators, Variable Refrigerant Flow systems, and Air Source Heat Pumps, reducing energy use and carbon emissions. Electrical systems featured a four-tiered power approach, enhancing resilience with standby generators, life-safety redundancies, and flexible operations for continuous facility function. Environmental responsibility exceeded ASHRAE 90.1 standards through passive cooling and heat recovery. Our commitment to social responsibility supported rehabilitation, education, cultural practices, and community engagement, ensuring a meaningful, lasting impact.

The Nanaimo Correctional Centre Replacement delivered a state-of-the-art facility, achieving significant reductions in energy use and carbon emissions through advanced mechanical and electrical systems. It enhanced security, supported rehabilitation and education, and positively impacted the community.