George Mason University, Arlington II Founders Hall

MBP provided comprehensive commissioning services from design through construction for this new seven-story, 256,260-square-foot classroom and academic building. Our scope included developing the commissioning plan and specifications, reviewing the Owner’s Project Requirements and design documents, and attending regular site meetings during construction. MBP also performed system checklist verification and functional performance testing and coordinated operations and maintenance staff training.

Commissioned systems included mechanical systems such as AHUs, air conditioning units, exhaust fans, hot water unit heaters, VAV boxes, boilers, chillers, cooling towers, pumps, an emergency generator, and the building automation system (HVAC controls).

A key commissioning observation by MBP identified low exit velocity from the generator exhaust, which led to a redesign of the exhaust system. This correction reduced back pressure on the engine, ensuring reliable startup and operation. Additional improvements made during TAB verification optimized airflow and water flow to equipment and spaces.

The facility includes multi-tiered classrooms, a 300-seat auditorium, a multi-purpose room, computer labs, faculty offices, a library, and a television production studio with editing suites. It also features a three-level, 450-car parking garage located beneath the building. The project achieved LEED Silver certification.