Historic HVAC update gets ‘aye’ vote

The Illinois chapter of the American Council of Engineering Companies salutes efforts to revamp the HVAC system in the State Capitol, while preserving the historical structure.

By Source: ACEC Illinois March 11, 2009

At its annual awards luncheon in February, the Illinois chapter of the American Council of Engineering Companies (ACEC) bestowed an Honor Award in the Building Systems/Technologies category to Champaign, Ill.-based Henneman Engineering Inc. for its HVAC system upgrade at the state’s capitol building.

Completed in 1888, the State Capitol included a general HVAC system, some parts of which had not been repaired for four decades. The first phase, which kicked off in the structure’s 405-tall rotunda, included asbestos removal and renovation; the Illinois Historic Preservation Agency is working with the team to maintain the historic character of the architecturally sensitive building. Next, replacement efforts will move to the west side, then to the north and finally east wings. During the course of the four-year schedule, capitol offices will be moved to a temporary location.

Click here for a list of other ACEC Illinois 2009 winners.