Texas A&M University – Fort Worth Law & Education Building

Project Background

HVJ North Texas recently completed comprehensive on-call construction materials testing (CMT) and inspection services for Texas A&M University's Law & Education Building in downtown Fort Worth, TX. With a total construction cost of $58.4 million, the project involves the design and construction of an academic facility dedicated to Law and Education programs.

The project includes a 225,000 gross square foot (GSF) academic building providing about 141,173 net assignable square feet (NASF) for Law and Education. It is being executed using a Construction Manager at Risk (CMAR) delivery method. The new building will support Texas A&M University System’s growth into the Fort Worth education market and serve as a long-term academic hub for the campus.

The Challenges

We faced several challenges related to the construction schedule and test results. First, the accelerated construction schedule required concurrent activities, involving multiple testing and inspection disciplines performed simultaneously, which demanded a high level of real-time collaboration. Our team needed to conduct field testing and inspections with minimal advance notice, and project requirements mandated that we notify of failed tests on an expedited schedule within 24 hours.

We also encountered difficulties with post-tensioning strength verification, as the initial laboratory cylinder break results did not meet the required compressive strength prior to the scheduled post-tensioning. Finally, weather caused safety and quality concerns, specifically high wind conditions during elevated concrete placement.

The Goals

Our goal was to work closely with the CMAR team, Owner’s representatives, and design professionals to provide services while maintaining quality standards and supporting critical project milestones of the accelerated schedule.

This included:

Certified field sampling and laboratory testing, including compressive strength testing and materials analysis.

QA/QC documentation for earthwork, concrete, and drill piers, performed in accordance with ASTM, TxDOT, and project specifications.

Structural steel inspections, welding inspections, reinforcing steel inspections, post-tension inspections, fireproofing inspections, and epoxy inspections.

Concrete sampling and testing to verify compliance with design and construction requirements. Detailed reporting to support construction quality and documentation.

Our Solution

We implemented several processes that allowed us to provide continuous support to the project.

We implemented several processes that allowed us to provide continuous support to the project. Our solutions included:
• Deployment of multi-certified technicians capable of performing materials testing and inspections across multiple disciplines, ensuring ongoing coverage without scheduling disruptions.
• Reallocation of qualified personnel from nearby projects to enable rapid response.
• Implementation of internal review and reporting procedures to facilitate expedited communication and immediate corrective action. To resolve the issue with post-tensioning strength verification, we used the Concrete Maturity Method to verify the in-place concrete strength. Maturity results confirmed compliance, allowing the post-tensioning to proceed. Subsequent pours included field-cured cylinders to better reflect in-place conditions.
• Finally, to address concerns about high winds, we advised postponing the concrete pour. While this temporarily impacted the schedule, the long-term benefits included reduced safety risks, avoided rework, and ensured compliance with all project specifications.

The Results

Our proactive quality oversight, technical expertise, and responsive field and laboratory support have been crucial in maintaining construction quality, safety, and schedule performance for this complex academic facility.

The project showcases HVJ’s ability to deliver comprehensive CMT and inspection services, including structural steel, welding, and fireproofing inspections, and highlights HVJ’s ongoing growth and experience in the higher education market.

We're honored to have been part of this important project! As explained by Dr. Kim McCuistion, Texas A&M System associate vice chancellor and the director of Texas A&M-Fort Worth, “These new buildings will change the landscape of downtown Fort Worth, not just on the campus but throughout the innovation district and beyond.”

Texas A&M University – Fort Worth Law & Education Building

Project Background

The Challenges

The Goals

Our Solution

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