IMEG provided design services for Fletcher Jones’ new, $50 million, 332,000-sf Elston Service Center in Chicago. 

The new service center is a significant upgrade to previous facilities and is comprised of three stories with rooftop parking. The first floor houses service writers, public service drives, internal car wash, Mercedes Sprinter service area, and receiving areas. The second floor is dedicated to Mercedes Benz service and the third floor houses Audi service. An internal drive ramp connects all levels. Each service level contains space for more than 40 service bays, along with parts and back-of-house spaces. The large site also contains a gas fuel station, external car wash, and storage areas. 

Engineers provided structural, MEP, fire protection, and technology design as well as architectural lighting, construction support, and commissioning services. 

Designs included a four-pipe HVAC system with 550-ton air cooled chiller system, an 18,000 MBH hot water condensing boiler plant, heat recovery AHUs serving the auto service areas, and a 4000A, 480V electrical service for the main building with separate site and car wash service. 

IMEG’s previous work with the owner allowed the firm to quickly respond to the needs and standards of the project. Engineers also collaborated with equipment providers to deliver a design that supported the facility’s large amount of service equipment. Coordination with the architect ensured that the infrastructure for the building’s vast ventilation and exhaust needs did not compromise the precast and glass exterior façade. 

The building also allows for future growth and provides services such as air conditioning in the service areas, which the owner did not previously have in all facilities.