Teater Readiness Center

Location

Columbus, Ohio

Owner

Ohio Air National Guard

Services

General Contracting, Concrete, Masonry and Caulking

Type

New Build

Square Footage

42,000 sq ft

Where Precision Meets Purpose: Constructing a State-of-the-Art Readiness Center for the Ohio Army National Guard

Comprehensive Features Include:

Full build of office space
Full build of multipurpose area
Full build of vault
Full build of garage

The Plan

The Ohio National Guard leaders began envisioning this center in 2018, as the limitations of facilities that were built in 1956 and the need for a larger, more modern space were increasingly affecting operations. When they received funding to build a new readiness center at Rickenbacker Air National Guard Base, they sought a partner who could deliver a complex project with precision, efficiency and trust.

They chose Miles-McClellan as general contractor for our deep knowledge of local resources, commitment to dedicating experts to the work and our reputation for proactively solving challenges.

From the outset, this client counted on us to concentrate the right expertise on this priority project. We tapped a senior project manager and one of our most experienced superintendents to lead the work, both known for their diligence, attention to detail and no-nonsense approach. Next, we dedicated a team of versatile, highly skilled carpenters and craftsmen to this project. Each person was particularly selected for their experience and broad capability to ensure every component would be executed to the client’s standards.

The Process

From the start, this project required a high level of precision and planning – as well as nimble leadership that could respond well to issues as they arose.

Our team demonstrated deep respect for the base’s special circumstances like extra security and other red-tape conditions. With limited site access for visitors, we put clear coordination systems in place before breaking ground, establishing a stringent framework we could manage as work progressed.

We developed detailed sitework, environmental and security plans to meet strict requirements, including securing EPA permits and implementing a client-requested, environmentally responsible work approach.

The Miles-McClellan team also collaborated closely with our trade partner and the owner to tackle unforeseen challenges, such as redesigning the storage cages. The original design included cage walls extending to the vaulted ceilings, which created significant conflicts with the overhead mechanical systems. To address this, we enclosed the tops of the cages, striking a balance between functionality and compliance while minimizing waste and resource consumption.

Another project management challenge was we were not allowed to export off-site, such as with excavation. This required extra ingenuity in how we utilized space all around the work site.

As the client’s engineering and architectural partners made progress in design revisions, our construction managers provided crucial insights, guidance and support to ensure the execution met the client’s expectations.

We also collaborated to resolve unforeseen challenges, like a redesign of the storage cages. While the original design called for cage walls extending to the vaulted ceilings, we pivoted to a more practical solution by enclosing the tops of the cages, ensuring both functionality and compliance while also constraining waste and resources.

The new facility serves a range of functions, such as a general purpose training bay, a high-bay garage workspace, administrative offices, secure storage areas and an arms vault. Each space came with its own set of technical and safety requirements, demanding constant coordination among stakeholders and rigorous quality control.

As construction moved forward, our crews managed specialized installations in framing, millwork, exterior finishes, fencing and specialty doors.

The Maj. Gen. Robert W. Teater Readiness Center is now home to the Ohio Army National Guard’s 73rd Troop Command Headquarters and the 437th Military Police Battalion. More than a facility, it is a hub built to the highest standards, and a testament to Miles-McClellan’s ability to deliver complex, meaningful projects for our community and the institutions that serve it.