Building New Energy-Efficient Boilers For A State Prison – New Jersey

Project Overview

Riggs Distler was subcontracted to furnish and install new High Temperature Hot Water Piping and Steam piping for new prepackaged Boilers in a Box (BIB) for 26 buildings at a Women’s Correctional Facility.

For this project, we had two main objectives:

• Build new energy-efficient boiler
• Upgrade the existing heating system

In order to achieve them, we implemented a plan to install new hot water supply and return lines, low pressure steam and condensate lines, natural gas piping, and drain lines from the tie-in points at each building to the new BIB tie-ins. This installation enabled us to provide a reliable and efficient source of hot water, steam, natural gas, and drainage to each of the buildings.

Challenges Overcome

Riggs Distler was presented with a unique challenge: completing a project inside a state prison during the COVID-19 pandemic. With both health and security protocols being enforced, our team was tasked with staying vigilant in our planning and being mindful of the extreme access restrictions that could affect our schedule. 

We focused on clear communication, adaptability, and strategic planning when handling this project. We were expected to be escorted by a state prison guard at all times and with a limited number of escorts being granted to us daily, we planned our work months in advance so the prison could schedule their guards accordingly.  Additionally, all tools needed to be checked in before and after each shift. To maximize efficiency, we built trailers for our tools, port-a-pottys, and equipment, allowing us to save time during inspections and maximize our productivity.

Results Delivered

Thanks to our commitment to safety and innovation, we were able to complete the project successfully and on schedule, proving that even in the midst of a pandemic and with many prison-related restrictions, our skillful and dedicated team can still deliver quality work. Our client and all related stakeholders now benefit from a new and energy-efficient heating system, delivered on time and on budget.