Henry J. Austin Health Center, a non-profit organization, needed a new facility to treat uninsured and underinsured patients in the Trenton area. The goal was to replace the current, 1,300-usable-square-feet, leased facility with a new 12,994 square-foot healthcare facility designed specifically for the use of providing primary care and dental services. Blue Rock Construction, Inc. (BRCI) faced the challenge of building a sizable, multi-story structure with on-site parking on a pre-existing small city lot in an urban environment. The design was done to make use of every square inch of space on the small lot. Logistics and constructability focused on efficient and optimal use of the space available. BRCI's challenge during the planning and construction phase of the project was to overcome the inherent logistical challenges imposed by the site, the design and the surrounding environment.

Our Strategy:

The BRCI project management team worked closely with the subcontractors, City of Trenton, architects, and most importantly the client, Henry J. Austin, to ensure an accurate, efficient and timely implementation. BRCI obtained permission from City of Trenton to utilize an adjacent lot for staging and material/equipment storage. After the problem of staging and storage was solved, construction logistics were addressed. Prior to the site and utility construction stage, BRCI worked closely with the City of Trenton to expand our work area into the street. This allowed for proper earth-shoring during excavation activities.

Results:

Blue Rock Construction successfully completed the construction of the building with minimal impact to the surrounding neighborhood. HJAHC gained occupancy of the site in February 2006. The new facility provides pediatrics, adult medicine, HIV testing and treatment, behavioral health, social work, podiatry, and dental services to all individuals or families who need quality, affordable, accessible primary health care.

The Client:

"For over 35 years, the Henry J. Austin Health Center has provided high quality, comprehensive primary health care services to our local community. With three locations throughout Trenton, Henry J. Austin is the area's source for culturally-sensitive ambulatory care."