3M Corporation
Cd. Juarez, Chih., Mexico

3M was seeking to develop this facility in Cd. Juarez, Mexico through the design-build methodology.  3M selected ECM International as the designer and project manager for this fast track endeavor. 

Construction consisted of tilt-up wall with a Firestone TPO roof system, FM approved wet pipe sprinkler and standpipe system. This facility included 13 loading docks, the production area had an area of 105,500 sq. ft., the office area had a kitchen and cafeteria, an infirmary and an exterior conference room on the first floor while the second floor had an open office area. The outbuildings for this facility consisted of a compressor room, trash compactor, chemical storage room, guardhouse, and pump room.

Project delivery services included project development, design drawings, city submittals and permits, bid submittals and bid evaluations as well as the coordination of Phase I environmental services.

One of the major challenges was project definition by the owner during the project development phase. Several project definition meetings were held with our design and environmental team with the 3M local and corporate staff to assist in the project definition. To enhance the schedule the construction phase was managed in two phases, initiating the earthwork construction phases in July 2006 while the project was being defined, followed by the construction phase initiating in October 2006 and achieving the project completion date of June 2006.

ECM International had to closely monitor project procedures to keep all team players focused so as not to jeopardize the design and construction process.

Cost reduction alternatives totaling $716,000 were developed by ECM and incorporated in the bid documents for client selection. The project was completed on time and within budget.