Project Overview
The ITC Headquarters in Novi, Michigan, represents a pinnacle of engineering innovation and resilience, serving as the nerve center for ITC’s vast high voltage electrical distribution system across Michigan, Iowa, and various other Midwest and Southern states. This sprawling 181,000 sq. ft. complex includes a six-story office tower, a two-story operations control center, and a three-level parking garage, with provisions for future expansion. Designed as a mission-critical facility, the operations control center is the heartbeat of ITC’s power grid management, ensuring uninterrupted service across its extensive network.
Engineering Excellence in Infrastructure
MA Engineering was entrusted with the monumental task of designing a facility that is not only functional but also resilient, capable of withstanding the most severe weather events, including F4 tornadoes. The engineering solutions deployed in this project showcase our commitment to innovation, efficiency, and reliability.
Mechanical and Environmental Systems
- Underfloor Air Distribution: The office tower and control center benefit from an advanced underfloor air distribution system, enhancing occupant comfort and air quality while providing exceptional control and efficiency.
- High-Efficiency Chilled and Heating Water Plants: Centralized systems ensure optimal temperature control and energy efficiency throughout the facility.
- Radiant Heating: The main lobby features radiant in-floor hydronic heating, and exterior pathways are equipped with radiant hydronic snow melt systems, ensuring safety and comfort even in the harshest winter conditions.
Power and Redundancy Systems
Generators and UPS: Three 1,750 kW generators and multiple UPS systems guarantee uninterrupted power, a critical feature for the operations control center and the entire facility.
N+1 Redundancy: Essential systems, including cooling and heating plants, HVAC for the control center, and office tower ventilation, are designed with N+1 redundancy to maintain operations without fail.
Safety and Sustainability Features
- Tornado Resilience: The facility’s design includes specialized features to ensure continued operation during an F4 tornado, such as complete HVAC system isolation and advanced recirculated air filtration to protect against debris and contaminants.
- Collaborative Innovation: The perimeter underfloor air distribution system, developed in collaboration with the manufacturer, sets a new standard for efficiency, control, and comfort in commercial buildings.
The ITC Headquarters stands as a testament to MA Engineering’s ability to deliver complex, highly technical engineering solutions that meet the critical needs of our clients. This project underscores our expertise in creating environments that are not only conducive to productivity but also exemplify the highest standards of safety, resilience, and environmental stewardship. Through innovative design and strategic planning, the ITC Headquarters is poised to remain a beacon of power management and operational excellence for decades to come.