2025 East Best Projects
Award of Merit, Government/Public Building: Jamaica Armory
Jamaica Armory
New York
Award of Merit
Submitted by CHA and Suffolk Construction
Construction Manager: LiRo-Hill
Prime Contractor: Suffolk Construction
Owner: Division of Military and Naval Affairs
Owners Representative: New York State Office of General Services
Lead Design Firm: CHA Consulting Inc.
Structural Engineer: LERA Consulting Structural Engineers
Environmental Design Firm: Ramboll
Architect: Envision Architecture
Plumbing and Fire Protection: Popli Design Group
The project team was tasked with renovating the 190,000-sq-ft, 1930s-era armory’s center section to better support training as well as administrative and logistical functions and to incorporate a new 41,000-sq-ft readiness center—all within the zero-lot-line site.
Along with the added challenge of preserving the building’s historic character, the team also contended with the COVID-19 pandemic. With little accurate as-built documentation available, the team used 3D laser scanning to generate a precise BIM model, which improved demolition planning and clash detection.
A floating second-floor podium and pile foundation system were incorporated within the existing footprint, while a new energy-efficient barrel-vaulted roof improved constructibility.
A historic preservationist guided restoration of the travertine lobby, original stairs and railings and ensured that sensitive spaces such as the library, conference room, office and corridors retained their historic integrity.
High-efficiency HVAC systems, upgraded IT infrastructure and a 1-megawatt diesel generator incorporated into the facility ensure operational resilience.
