This new, year-round, multi-purpose center will serve as the gateway to the park’s 400,000 annual visitors. A separate ranger operations building provides support space for field ranger staff, search and rescue, and equipment maintenance/storage. Both buildings echo design concepts from the Civilian Conservation Corps of the 1930’s. The two-story center will feature:
• Reception/Information desk
• Interpretive exhibits and displays
• Auditorium for holding special events and showing park films
• Retail store for books, maps, and educational products
• Concession gift shop and kitchen/restaurant seating 50 guests
• First aid services and public restrooms
Our energy analysis resulted in a building design that is 35.8% below California’s 2001 energy standard, and 45% below the LEED energy standard. For flexibility in bidding, our mechanical design included two alternative schemes: (1) geothermal heat pump system with full air conditioning, and (2) conventional heating and ventilation only. Both schemes include radiant heating and snowmelt systems.