Category: Owners Representation

How Planning Services Can Benefit Municipalities of Any Size

Posted on November 21, 2024

By David Phillips, Senior Planner

Municipalities, regardless of their size, face unique challenges when it comes to managing capital projects and infrastructure development. Planning services offer a comprehensive solution to these challenges, ensuring that cities can effectively manage growth, budget constraints, and facility needs. Because planning services will vary according to a city or town’s specific needs, understanding the possibilities is essential before engaging a firm. Here are some key benefits you can look for:

Expertise Beyond In-House Capabilities

Many municipalities have an in-house director of facilities, but the influx of money from population growth or federal funding can overwhelm their capacity. Planning services can offer specialized expertise to handle these situations, allowing cities to improve and build infrastructure without the need to hire additional short-term staff. This ensures that best practices are implemented from day one, and once a project is completed, the planning services firm can seamlessly transition to the next project or assist another municipality.

Real-Time Cost Estimates and Budget Confidence

When a city outgrows a facility, such as a library, planning services provide real-time cost estimates during the design phase. This is a critical skill that many cities lack in-house. By offering accurate budget and cost projections, the planning services firm instills confidence in financial planning and helps municipalities avoid costly surprises.

Strategic Planning and Site Selection

Using demographic studies and GIS mapping planning services can help municipalities anticipate future needs and assist with site selection for new facilities, such as ballfields for growing populations. This strategic planning ensures that municipalities are prepared for growth and can make informed decisions about where to invest in new infrastructure.

Comprehensive Facility Assessments

By conducting thorough assessments of all current facilities, planning services firms can evaluate their lifecycles and plan for upgrades, maintenance, and growth. This holistic approach covers the entire lifecycle of a facility, from new construction to maintenance and eventual replacement. By continuously evaluating facility conditions and projecting future needs, firms can help municipalities make informed decisions about capital spending.

Phased Planning and Cash Flow Management

With the influx of funds, municipalities often face the challenge of deciding what to build or replace first. Planning services assist in phasing projects, budgeting based on current and future construction costs, and managing cash flow over time. This phased approach ensures that municipalities can prioritize projects effectively and maintain financial stability.

Accountability and Community Engagement

Planning services help municipalities remain accountable to taxpayers by presenting plans and progress to boards and community leaders. This transparency builds trust and ensures that projects are aligned with community needs and expectations. Good firms act as a partner, working closely with city leaders to manage projects and deliver results.

Leveraging Relationships and Expertise

With an extensive network of consultants and architects throughout a region, planning services firms can bring in the right experts for each project. This reach and relationship-building benefit municipalities by providing access to top-tier professionals and resources.

Supporting Cities Through Change

Whether a city is experiencing rapid growth or undergoing significant changes, planning services offer move management and other support services to help municipalities navigate transitions smoothly. By partnering with a firm, cities can focus on running their operations while the firm handles the complexities of capital projects.

No matter what size your municipality, HPM planning services can provide municipalities with the expertise, strategic planning, and comprehensive support needed to manage capital projects effectively. From real-time cost estimates to phased planning and community engagement, HPM ensures that cities can grow and thrive while maintaining financial stability and accountability.

City of Denton Holds Grand Opening for New Fire Station 9

Posted on July 31, 2024

On Friday, July 26, the City of Denton held a ceremony commemorating the official opening of Fire Station 9. The new facility was strategically placed at Denton Enterprise Airport to allow for quick response times from the city’s Aircraft Rescue and Fire Fighting (ARFF) sector of the fire department.

About the Facility

The Denton Airport is one of the busiest in Texas, and the 60th busiest airport in the U.S. The $14 million Fire Station 9 will help reduce risk for passengers, further enhancing the city’s commitment to safety. In addition, Fire Station 9 will open the door for even greater airport traffic as many corporate insurance policies require an ARFF to be at all airports where jets are landed.

“This is something that we’ve been talking about for over a decade since we got into the ARFF business,” said Battalion Chief, David Boots. “It’s been a dream for a long time.”

The station is a 14,000-square-foot, two-story building with four bays and two fire poles. The facility is split, with one side dedicated to air and the other dedicated to land. Included in the facility are many safety features, including a decontamination bathroom and an infrared sauna. These amenities were incorporated to reduce cancer risks for firefighters, reducing their exposure to toxins.

HPM’s Involvement

HPM served as Program Manager for the project, ensuring the city’s vision came to life on time and within the allocated budget. In addition, HPM is providing Program Management services for ongoing City of Denton projects, including Fire Station 5, Fire Station 6, Denton Fire Emergency Modular Building, Denton Service Center and Denton Solid Waste Facility. Employing an external Program Manager alleviates logistical concerns from city leadership, enabling them to prioritize other initiatives pertaining to citizen well-being. The city plans to build four additional fire stations in the next ten years.

HPM to Attend 2024 Farnborough International Airshow in England

Posted on July 16, 2024

HPM will attend the 2024 Farnborough International Airshow (FIA) in Farnborough, United Kingdom, outside of London, from July 22-24. President Ryan Austin will be joined by Vice President of Business Development Jay Daily, Vice President of Business Development Andi Sims and Director of Business Development Cynthia Foteh at the event. This marks a decade of attendance for HPM at the second-largest airshow of its kind world-wide.

FIA is a biennial trade exhibition bringing together aerospace industry professionals, economic and business development recruiters, and city, state and national delegations from around the globe to demonstrate their business offerings to potential customers and investors. More than 1,200 exhibitors from 44 countries will be represented in this year’s trade show exhibition, displaying products and service capabilities to nearly 75,000 attendees from 102 countries.

HPM provides owners’ representation for large capital building projects — including airlines, aircraft manufacturers, airports, maintenance-repair-overhaul (MRO) companies and space and defense firms, as well as local and state governments interested in attracting capital investments. HPM’s portfolio of experience in aviation & aerospace projects includes managing the design and construction of the first Airbus U.S. Manufacturing Facility and the management of a variety of manufacturing and MRO facilities for national and international clients. HPM’s most recent initiatives includes projects for Airbus, Aerojet Rocketdyne, the Mobile Airport Authority, Sierra Space, ST Aerospace, Boom Supersonic, Leonardo Helicopters and AAR’s new MRO facility at Miami International Airport.

“We are thrilled to again have a presence at FIA, the most impactful place to learn and network among innovators in aviation and aerospace,” said Austin. “We always value the time spent collaborating with our peers, partners and clients in an environment with unmatched expertise. HPM’s offerings continue to expand, and our specialized expertise within the aviation and aerospace sector continues to grow, as we pursue new partnerships and add value for industry leaders. We look forward to showcasing our capabilities and strengthening our presence at Farnborough this year.”

HPM Hires Cynthia Foteh as Director of Business Development

Posted on July 15, 2024

HPM has announced the hiring of Cynthia Foteh as the company’s newest Director of Business Development. Based in HPM’s Austin office, Foteh will oversee client-relationship management and spearhead new business initiatives in the Texas market as HPM continues to pursue projects in the region.

Foteh possesses more than 20 years of experience in the public and private sectors of the AEC industry, having held positions including Business Development Manager at Powers Brown Architecture and Director of Business Development at WGA Consulting Engineers. As Director of Business Development at HPM, she will lead business strategy and sales initiatives, aiming to expand the firm’s presence in Texas.

“I’m honored to step into this role at such a pivotal time, as HPM continues to expand its reach by offering premier program management services to high-profile clients across Texas,” said Foteh. “My passion for driving growth, fostering collaboration and building connections within this industry aligns with HPM’s mission and people-oriented values. I look forward to continuing to immerse myself in Texas-centric professional organizations and leadership communities, and to working alongside such a talented team as we expand our footprint across the state.”

Through her role, Foteh will aim to build and maintain relationships with clients, partners and stakeholders to deliver high-quality business solutions and strategies that meet the needs for quality program management services. She will focus on the education, municipal and manufacturing industries within Texas as she works to expand HPM’s portfolio.

“We are proud to welcome Cynthia to HPM, as her wealth of experience in AEC initiatives and ability to build meaningful relationships with clients will help us advance to the next stage of growth in Texas,” said Ryan Austin, HPM President. “It’s an exciting time for our firm, as we continue to expand into new markets and explore new sectors while strengthening our boots-on-the-ground efforts across the country. Cynthia will play a crucial role in ensuring this success and dedication to program management excellence continues for both our existing clients and those we will work with in the future.”

CMAA SAC Names HPM 2024 Project Achievement Award Winner

Posted on July 9, 2024

CMAA’s South Atlantic Chapter (CMAA SAC) recently released its 2024 awards, recognizing HPM as a Project Achievement Award Winner for The University of Alabama’s Catherine and Pettus Randall Welcome Center.

Construction Management Association of America

CMAA offers Project Achievement Awards annually to recognize projects that stand out as examples in the construction industry, demonstrating excellence and innovation. These awards are reserved for facilities that push the industry forward and motivate its leaders to push past perceived limitations and pursue what others have deemed impossible. Representatives from HPM attended the annual Awards Gala in Atlanta, GA, where guests were inspired by the projects of fellow award winners, having managed cutting-edge projects in various categories.

Catherine and Pettus Randall Welcome Center

The 15,000-square-foot Randall Welcome Center comprises the first level of the historic Peter Bryce Main facility and serves as the “front door to campus” for all who visit. Inside the facility are numerous interactive elements designed to provide prospective students with a glimpse into campus life. From academics to athletics, guests are guaranteed to enjoy an immersive display of the UA culture. The welcome center is aptly named in honor of Dr. Catherine J. Randall and her late husband, Pettus Randall. The Randall family is beloved among the University of Alabama community, known for their commitment to generous hospitality.

One particularly unique space within the facility is the Roll Tide Room. This room features a custom interactive AV element comprised of (54) individual LED screens that are webbed together to create a single image. The wall is constructed to mimic a rolling tidal wave, creating an interactive immersion experience.

HPM & The University of Alabama

HPM collaborated with UA to achieve their vision of a strategic restructuring of the historic facility, originally constructed in 1861. Seeking to preserve the defining characteristics of the original architecture, HPM managed every detail with care. The project team provided comprehensive services ranging from preconstruction to field coordination to move management, all with students in mind.

HPM’s relationship with the University of Alabama began two decades ago in 2004. For 20 years, HPM has worked with the university on construction and renovations across campus. From residence halls to athletic complexes to academic facilities, HPM has an established history of managing capital projects on the Capstone’s behalf.

ENR Ranks HPM #25 on Top 50 Program Management Firms List

Posted on July 2, 2024

Each year, the Engineering News-Record (ENR) gathers data from firms nationwide to determine their Top 50 Program Management Firms list. HPM has been included in the list every year since 2014.

About ENR

ENR generates annual rankings in an effort to create structure in a large and, at times, overwhelming industry. Their surveys procure relevant information from key segments within the industry, including general contracting, engineering, architecture, and more specialized services, such as program management. Rankings are determined based on revenue generated both within the U.S. and abroad. ENR’s news, analysis, and commentary are published to empower construction industry professionals to do their jobs with greater knowledge and efficiency.

HPM’s Ongoing Growth

HPM has experienced exponential growth in the niche service offerings of construction audit and planning, along with more hallmark services like preconstruction, project management and owner’s representation. The company continues to spearhead projects on behalf of leading corporations in aviation and aerospace, industrial manufacturing, and technology while managing construction for cutting-edge sports and entertainment venues, higher education facilities and best-in-class K-12 schools.

Recent years have brought a surge in higher education projects for the company, opening doors to partner with numerous institutions for the first time in firm history. Current higher education projects include Mississippi State University’s Azalea Hall, the University of Mississippi’s Jim and Thomas Duff Center for Science and Technology Innovation, the University of Alabama in Huntsville’s College of Engineering, and the University of North Alabama’s Bank Independent Stadium.

In addition to embarking on first-time programs with new partners, HPM maintains decades-long working relationships and ongoing projects with numerous esteemed clients. In 2023, HPM celebrated 20 years of work with Regions Bank, and celebrated 20 years of work on campus The University of Alabama in April this year. The company has managed projects on behalf of FedEx for eight years.

To support the company’s external growth initiatives, HPM has made strategic growth strides internally. In 2023, the firm hired 49 new employees and promoted 18. As a result of HPM’s ongoing development, employees have been provided with new opportunities for scalability and career advancement.

HPM and UNA Break Ground on Bank Independent Stadium

Posted on June 18, 2024

HPM has announced the groundbreaking for Bank Independent Stadium at the University of North Alabama, marking Florence, Alabama’s first dedicated stadium. A groundbreaking ceremony was held on Friday, June 14th, and construction is expected to begin immediately with a goal of project completion in Fall 2026.

The event came just a few hours after members of the Board unanimously approved a resolution authorizing and supporting Bank Independent Stadium design and overall budgetary approach, which paved the way for moving the project into its third and final phase. The launch of the historic Shine On, Gold comprehensive campaign to raise $100 million for UNA has helped propel this project forward.

“The fundraising success we have experienced this far – and less than a full year into the Shine On, Gold comprehensive campaign – indicates that we have tremendous support and momentum for Bank Independent Stadium as well as for the other priorities that are part of the campaign,” said UNA President Dr. Ken Kitts. “It is gratifying to witness the great excitement for this project and to note how it complements the growth and academic success of the institution as we approach our third century of offering educational excellence.”

The Bank Independent Stadium has a base cost of approximately $65 million. To date, total fundraising for the stadium has soared to $25 million, and officials expect to add significantly to that figure once work on the project begins. The UNA Board has authorized the institution to borrow up to $35 million toward the cost of construction. Additionally, the UNA Department of Athletics reserved funds for this project during the planning process and will make those available for construction.

HPM is working closely with UNA to provide specialized services throughout the entirety of the project. Starting with preconstruction, HPM is overseeing budgeting, scheduling, design management, risk assessment and contract negotiation. The program management firm, which has worked on over two million square feet of athletic facility projects, uses its more than 25 years of experience and industry connections in the Southeast to effectively understand the university’s needs and serve as the official owner’s representative until the project’s completion.

“The start of construction of Bank Independent Stadium signifies a new chapter for UNA’s athletic program and the City of Florence, and HPM is ecstatic to be part of this dynamic project,” said Ben Henson, Vice President of Program Development at HPM. “Bank Independent Stadium will be a transformative addition to the University, ushering in a new era of growth for the school and bringing best-in-class recreational and entertainment offerings to the community.”

The design was approved by the Board and includes capacity for more than 10,000 Lions fans as well as other amenities, including the ability for future expansion, a 360-degree fan concourse, a premium tower featuring a new weight room, 13 spacious suites, a multipurpose stadium club, outdoor gathering areas, and multiple seating options with new fan amenities.

Concurrent with construction on Bank Independent Stadium, work will also be taking place at the baseball field adjacent to the stadium and at the UNA Spring Sports Complex at Cox Creek. The location will include a multipurpose turf field and track that will be available for academic, athletic, intramural, and community use. UNA’s football and soccer teams will use the multipurpose field during construction. As Bank Independent Stadium prepares to open, the Marching Pride will become the primary tenant of the Sports Complex at Cox Creek.

UNA Baseball will enjoy a reimagined space for the 2025 season that will include a new state of-the-art playing surface, an all-chairback seating concourse, a video board, and a unique outfield wall that resembles Fenway Park’s historic “Green Monster.” HPM will also be providing program management services for the Sports Complex at Cox Creek and baseball field.

HPM’s Will Cather Included in BBJ’s 2024 NextGen BHM List

Posted on May 24, 2024

Will Cather, Project Manager at HPM, has been included in the 2024 NextGen BHM: Construction & Real Estate list published by Birmingham Business Journal. This list is comprised of up-and-coming industry leaders who demonstrate great potential and leadership qualities. Recipients were chosen based on their contributions to their companies, their role in the industry, the likelihood of them becoming prominent leaders in their field, and their role in the Birmingham community. All honorees are under the age of 30.

About the NextGen BHM Recipient

With a robust background in contracting, design, and project management work, Will is a master of all trades in the construction/real estate industry. He currently provides leadership on HPM’s Regions account. His scope of work includes numerous facilities maintenance capital projects, which often present demands around the clock. Capital replacements/upgrades of elevators, fire alarm systems, HVAC units, HVAC control systems and both exterior and interior LED lighting retrofits are all common FMC projects. Will remains available to the client, going above and beyond to demonstrate commitment to getting the job done with excellence. This consistent work ethic has earned him a remarkable amount of credibility within the industry.

Regions Project Manager David Caulkins heralded Will’s contributions, stating, “Will has been such an asset to the team, it’s hard to surmise into a simple statement. He is transparent, available, and impactful, all in a timely manner.”

Will was promoted after only eight months with HPM, an honor indicating his high level of performance and robust work ethic. “Will excels in managing client expectations as he communicates in a clear and effective manner”, said his supervisor, Charles Phillips. “He is a team player and fosters a collaborative work environment where his coworkers feel valued and motivated. Will understands that if one person on our team succeeds, we all succeed.”

Community Involvement

A rising star in his profession and his community, Will is dedicated to giving back to the Birmingham area. He is actively involved with The WellHouse, a local organization providing residential, therapeutic programs to female victims of human trafficking. After attending a gala benefitting the organization, Will immediately began pursuing opportunities to serve on their board.

A graduate of The University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB) and life-long resident of Birmingham, Will is sure to impact the construction industry and the Magic City for decades to come.

The Huntsville Times Highlights Drake State Renovation

Posted on May 21, 2024

The article below was written by Scott Turner and published by The Huntsville Times.

A Health Sciences facelift, and 4 more things about Drake State’s $15 million renovation

A $15 million renovation project has recently been completed on the Drake State Community and Technical College campus on Meridian Street in north Huntsville. The project included the renovation of the Health Sciences building and the library and administration building that is the face of the Historic Black Community College campus.

Here are five things to know about the renovation:

1. It was funded by the CARES Act.

In an earlier interview with the Huntsville Times, Drake State President Patricia Sims said the college had been historically underfunded. The renovation of the library and the Health Sciences expansion are being done with federal COVID-19 recovery money from the CARES (Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Securities) Act.

2. Health Sciences building gets a ‘facelift’.

HPM Project Manager Sarah Logan said the 12,800-square foot Health Sciences building was completely gutted and renovated on the inside. The general contractor built a new facade. The front face of the building is new.

“They kind of gave it a facelift, if you will,” Logan said.

There is a new reception area. There are offices for the Health Sciences staff. There is a new conference room and breakroom area. The labs start in the last half of the building. There are simulation labs with an observation area. Students go into simulation labs and instructors view them and grade their clinicals. Further in the building are larger labs where students learn and practice skills in groups before they get tested on them.

“There are four skills labs each with a mixture of new and old equipment,” Logan said.

3. Health Sciences building expanded for growth.

Drake State spokesperson Daniel Owen said the expanded Health Sciences building will allow registered and practical nursing students to gain valuable “hands on experience.”

“With the four skills labs they have areas for growth,” Owen said. “It’s more opportunities for students to practice. That was what was really important about upgrading this building.”

Students from the medical assisting program at the school will also use the building. There are currently 190 health sciences students.

“The nursing program needed room to grow in order to meet the demands of health care employers in the area,” Drake State Health Sciences Department Division Chair Alice Raymond said. “The new space allows for expanded programs and better clinical experiences due to the multiple large skills labs. Students now have a safe, low-stress environment to practice their skills and gain hands-on experience. It also gives us an opportunity to start a new dual enrollment practical nursing program. This will allow students to begin their health sciences career pathway in high school and begin earning certifications.”

4. Library becomes a “one-stop shop”.

The first two floors of the 39,000 square-foot library got full-interior renovations, Logan said.

“The third floor, where the administration staff is, received finishes,” Logan said. “It got new carpet, new paint, ceiling tiles, just touch ups like that.”

Owen said the library became a “one-stop shop” with the renovations.

“The renovation undertaken by Drake State has transformed the student services division into a comprehensive hub, streamlining access to a myriad of services, including our wraparound support offerings,” added Drake State Dean of Students Nicole Bell. “This demonstrates Drake State’s deliberate efforts to ensure that students feel cared for by providing services tailored to their needs. By becoming a one-stop destination, we embody our commitment to being a caring campus, emphasizing our dedication to prioritizing students above all else.”

The advising and financial aid office now in the library was previously housed in the Health Sciences building.

“When the library’s size was consolidated on the second floor of this building, we were able to build out these spaces,” Logan said.

In addition to advising and financial aid, there is a bookstore in the library. All of student services and testing are in the building. The dean of instruction office and dean of students are also in the facility, along with the office of the president and the development office.

“There is a large classroom, a lecture hall. There is a really large conference room on the second floor,” Owen said. “They’ve had some classes in there as well.”

The library also houses the Veterans Resource Center. The renovation of the library and Health Sciences building took 14 months. The project included an upgrade to the mechanical yard attached to the library.

5. Construction is not complete on campus.

Not included in the renovation project is the construction on the $18 million advance manufacturing center adjacent to the Health Sciences building. That 50,000-square foot facility is being built with funds allocated by the Alabama Legislature for the Alabama Community College System between 2017-19, Sims said. Fite Construction of Decatur is the builder.

Levi Mayer, assistant dean of instruction, told the Times the center will house five programs: mechatronics (industrial maintenance), electrical technology, engineering design, welding and machine tool technology. Mayer said there were 173 students involved in the programs out of a student body of more than 900. The school is seeing growth through its Connecting Students to Industry program, where manufacturers such as Mazda Toyota, Toyota Motor Manufacturing and Polaris are involved with the training.

It is the first new building on the 61-year-old campus since the library opened in 2005.

Oak Mountain State Park Completes Campground Renovation

Posted on May 20, 2024

Oak Mountain State Park held a ribbon-cutting ceremony on May 18, 2024, commemorating the completion of the newly renovated campground. The facilities will officially open to the public beginning Memorial Day Weekend. After closing for construction in August 2023, the re-opening is a highly anticipated kick-off to the summer season at one of Alabama’s most popular state parks.

Camping Reimagined at Oak Mountain State Park

The $13 million project includes a brand-new camp store, dog park, and Alabama State Park’s first National Demonstration Site (NDS) playground. Expanded, ADA-compliant tent and RV sites are also part of the renovation, broadening accessibility for all guests. Visitors will now have access to widened, modernized camping pads, high-speed Wi-Fi, and fully accessible family unit bathhouses, including laundry facilities with heating and air conditioning. All RV sites come with a grill, fire pit, lantern hook, and picnic table, making for a luxurious “glamping” experience. For the naturalists, tent sites have been equipped with new amenities as well.

“We truly believe the new campground will revolutionize the experience campers enjoy at Oak Mountain State Park”, said Chris Blankenship, Commissioner of Conservation for the State of Alabama. “Everything is bigger and better than it was before, and we can’t wait for our loyal customers to get here and enjoy everything the park has to offer.”

Ensuring Excellence

HPM managed the Oak Mountain State Park renovation providing logistical support from preconstruction through closeout. A crucial component to achieving success was remaining on track with the project’s master schedule. An extensive list of materials with long lead-times required thorough planning and proactivity to circumvent supply chain issues. Proper procurement methods and meticulous schedule tracking allowed the team to complete construction on time. Each measure of diligence taken by the project team paved the way for the campground’s official opening date to be upheld.

Prior to undergoing renovations at Oak Mountain State Park, the Alabama Dept of Conservation & Natural Resources (ADCNR) called upon HPM to serve as program manager for a series of renovation projects at parks throughout the state. The three-year capital improvement program will benefit 14 state parks. HPM partnered with ADCNR to determine how to best schedule the projects and allocate resources to all corners of the state, and will continue to see the projects through to completion.