Location

North Royalton, Ohio

IMPACT

The campus tests large bearing systems that can have 13-ft ODs on sophisticated equipment capable of simulating harsh operating conditions similar to multi-megawatt wind turbines. The new facility is expected to shorten development cycles and improve the reliability and cost effectiveness.

Stark State Wind Energy Research Development Center

In addition to the master planning effort, Environmental Design Group’s responsibilities include the detailed design for the first phase of the R&D facility. Phase 1 site work is budgeted at just over $1 million dollars.

As a key member of the Architect’s design team, Environmental Design Group provided site master planning for the satellite campus that explored opportunities for campus expansion following the construction of the new R&D Center. This critical first step outlined a long-term vision for the campus plan and responded to project opportunities and constraints as they related to the project program, existing site features, topography, and the presence of wetlands. An evaluation of the existing infrastructure was also considered to determine potential impacts to the initial R&D facility.

A detailed analysis of existing airport restrictions and easements was also conducted as the site lies within the Akron-Canton runway protection zone and, as such, has a significant impact with regard to the positioning of buildings and vertical elements on the site.