Maricopa County High-Rise Court Tower, Phoenix, AZ

As one of the nation’s fastest growing areas in the nation, Maricopa County embarked on expanding their existing complex by adding a state-of-the-art high-rise court tower to support the increase in criminal justice proceedings.

Syska Hennessy Group successfully developed the high-performance design solutions to support the new 100-year building, completed in December 2012.

The court tower required systems capable of supporting high-tech security and office equipment, while being able to support future changes to complete the master plan and expansions. To save time and increase design accuracy, Syska contributed to the development of a 3D model in an integrated BIM environment using Revit MEP. We used this architectural geometric model to design the mechanical, electrical and plumbing systems; airflow, temperature and pressure simulations (CFD modeling); and conduct energy analysis.

Syska utilized CFD modeling to evaluate end-user thermal comfort within all areas of the courtroom and ensure a consistent temperature gradient throughout the entire space. The Sallyport was also modeled to evaluate airflow to ensure effective collection and removal of vehicle exhaust.

Awards
2012 COAA/AIA Owner’s Choice BIM Award
2011 Best of NAIOP/Economic Impact Project of the Year
2012 RED Award/Public Project of the Year

LEED Status
LEED©  Gold

Size
695,000 sf

Owner
Maricopa County

Architect
Gould Evans Associates & AECOM

GM/CM
Gilbane Inc.

Services/Features
MEP
Sustainable
Vertical transportation
Media facilities
32 court rooms
Jury assembly room
16 elevators & 6 escalators
Secure judge’s chambers
Secure victim and witness areas