Photo by Gordon Trice

Ronald McDonald House of Fort Worth Phase 3

In support of the budget and the owner's mission, numerous subcontractors and vendors reduced their fees and donated materials. However, the availability of donated materials and labor did not always align with the project schedule. For example, donated flooring material was discontinued, with the project receiving the last runs. Careful coordination was required to make sure that there was enough material to adequately complete the project.

Efforts to tie into the existing building posed a challenge as well. The building was built in 1996, so a precedent had been set for the house with respect to aesthetics and function. One of the goals was to make the building appear seamless so it did not look like it had been done in multiple phases over time. Finding materials to match the building took a lot of time and coordination. Strategies such as just-in-time deliveries, coordinating deliveries during off hours and utilizing smaller delivery vehicles helped the project along.

Throughout construction, Linbeck led multiple tours of non-construction personnel through the site, as there were many donors and community stakeholders. As a result, the project team had to be mindful of the tours that occurred throughout the day. Loud work was scheduled during hours when tours would not be taking place, while mini-milestones such as the tower erection, roof topping out and front-door installation occurred with an audience present.

Key Players

General Contractor Linbeck Group LLC, Fort Worth

Owner Ronald McDonald House of Fort Worth

Lead Design Jim Brandsford Architects, Fort Worth

Structural RL Woods & Associates, Arlington, Texas

Civil Dunaway & Associates Inc., Fort Worth

MEP Wells Doak Engineering, Fort Worth