Task Order Contract Number N68711-05-D-4014/0003 - Design/Build 12kV Electrical Distribution System for the Remote Fire Station & Buffalo Bump Tower

San Diego, CA

Multiple Award Construction Contract (MACC) for New Construction and Renovation of Various Dry Utilities at various locations within the U.S. Navys NAVFAC Southwest Area of Responsibility, including but not limited to Arizona, California, Nevada, and New Mexico (Task Order Contract Number N68711-05-D-4014/0003)

Syska was responsible for this Design/Build project for a new 12kV, two-wire, 3-phase electrical distribution system for the remote fire station and the Buffalo Bump Tower. The existing electrical system at the fire station and communications tower consisted of emergency generators and PV cells that did not provide sufficient power for the 24/7 operation of the site. The new line tapped into the power system at Area 52 and extended 14 miles to provide reliable power to the remote fire station and the Buffalo Bump tower. The power line was built by SDG&E overhead and underground standards. There were approximately four miles of concrete-encased, underground power lines interspersed with the overhead line in order to meet unique owner requirements. The line went underground through the range area, and underground again where overhead lines would have interfered with air traffic. Step down transformers were provided at the fire station and at the communications tower and both locations were connected to the new power line.

Raptor guards were placed on selected poles to protect the birds that might perch on the pole arms. Some of the pole line was in the flight path used for helicopter exercises and infrared location lights were installed at the top of poles where the pole line changed direction. Also, ground-operated air break switches were installed at four locations, allowing power to be cut upstream of selected locations so that the entire line would not need to be brought down in case of problems farther up the line.