Construction Update: Bulletin 8 - Change this value to a strong SEO phrase
Construction Project Update Bulletins are provided by the Refinery Terminal Fire Company (RTFC) for the construction of the new Fire Station and Administrative Building Project (I-37 at McBride Lane). The updates are meant to be a source of information for the Manchester Addition and Dona Park residents and property owners as well as surrounding businesses, municipal and county representatives and RTFC member companies.
These Bulletins are available online at www.rtfc.org/construction, by email (upon request), at St. Theresa Catholic Church (1302 Lantana) and the Local Emergency Planning Committee office for the City of Corpus Christi (2406 Leopard Street).
Construction Update
We are getting close to a successful completion of the new RTFC facilities. We anticipate moving into the administrative building in June. But the fire station will take another month to complete with an anticipated move-in date scheduled for some time in July.
Separation Fence
The final work to the screening fence will be done closer to the fire station completion date and will include painting of accent stone colors. There will also be work done to level the ground between the fence and the chain link so that lawn equipment can maneuver on level ground.
Retention Pond
We continue to monitor the retention pond for any unwanted aquatic or pest growth. As a reminder, it will have water added to it as needed to maintain pond level and will have a pump system to provide constant movement of water surface.
Ant Control
Professional pest services have once again been contracted and were called to the site in April to treat the entire perimeter of the fence line including identifiable ant mounds. These services are under warranty and available throughout the year as needed. Please contact Carla Gardiner if there is a reoccurrence of ant activity on the RTFC property near your home.
New Logo
We have changed our look and want to introduce you to our new logo. You may see it around town as simply RTFC without our name at the bottom. We just wanted to make sure that when you do, you knew it was us.
Construction Project Update Bulletins are provided by the Refinery Terminal Fire Company (RTFC) for the construction of the new Fire Station and Administrative Building Project (I-37 at McBride Lane). The updates are meant to be a source of information for the Manchester Addition and Dona Park residents and property owners as well as surrounding businesses, municipal and county representatives and RTFC member companies.
These Bulletins are available online at www.rtfc.org/construction, by email (upon request), at St. Theresa Catholic Church (1302 Lantana) and the Local Emergency Planing Committee office for the City of Corpus Christi (2406 Leopard Street).
Construction Update
We don’t have a lot to report in this Update Bulletin. The continuing wet weather has pushed our work schedule back a bit. We anticipate a completion date for the administration building to be some time mid-April and hope to move our office staff and management team into it at the beginning of May. The fire station won’t be completed until later. We have not yet established what that date will be.
Separation Fence
We’ve been asked again about the strength and design of the separation fence (also referred to as a screening or privacy fence and ‘the wall’). This prefabricated concrete construction includes 36” diameter concrete piers which were placed 16 feet into the ground and reinforced with vertical and cylindrical steel. It was designed to withstand wind load pressures developed by a 120 mph wind velocity, 3 second gust, Exposure C, with an importance factor of 1.15 and meets all City codes. As reference, a Category 3 hurricane has sustained winds of 111-129 mph.
While the screening fence was not required to be designed to withstand an explosion by building code, the short duration of pressure from a blast is similar to what may occur during a gust of wind in a hurricane event, with the exception that frequency of gusting wind velocities typically extend for a longer duration in a hurricane.
Based on the design of the screening wall, it would perform much better than existing surrounding fences, storage units, and buildings that were not designed and built to windstorm requirements, which would show visible signs that an event
had occurred.
The final work to the screening fence will be done closer to the fire station completion date and will include texturing and painting. There will also be work done to level the ground between the fence and the chain link so that lawn
equipment can maneuver on a level ground.
What’s Next
Corpus Christi Community Advisory Council
Thursday, February 12 | 11:30 AM | Flint Hills Resources, 1925 Tuloso Rd.
Topic: City of Corpus Christi
Construction Project Update Bulletins are provided by the Refinery Terminal Fire Company (RTFC) for the construction of the new Fire Station and Administrative Building Project (I-37 at McBride Lane). The updates are meant to be a source of information for the Manchester Addition and Dona Park residents and property owners as well as surrounding businesses, municipal and county representatives and RTFC member companies.
These Bulletins are available online at www.rtfc.org/construction, by email (upon request), at St. Theresa Catholic Church (1302 Lantana) and the Local Emergency Planing Committee office for the City of Corpus Christi (2406 Leopard Street).
Construction Update
While good for the drought in our area, the rainy weather in November created some challenges at the work site for construction crews. Let’s just say the word for November was ‘mud’. Despite all the wet weather, progress was made, and as you can now see, we have our buildings framed and the final foundation poured for the fire station.
December Schedule
Crews will continue to work throughout the month of December with plans for a 1/2 day on the 24th and no work on the 25th and 26th. There are also plans for a 1/2 day on the 31st, no work on January 1st and smaller work crews returning on
the 2nd.
The Work Week
The nature of a construction project as large as this one brings talent and crews to our area from out-of-town. As such, their schedule often requires a six day and sometimes seven day work week. Once they are done, however, they move on to
the next construction project at another location – even in another town. This is why we have had some crews working six or seven days in a row.
However, some time after the new year much of the site work will turn to phases of interior construction. While there remains some exterior attention to finishing out the parking lots, landscaping and general clean-up the work levels will progressively decrease along with crew sizes.
Emergency Alert System
Once the fire station and administration buildings are operational, the notification system which alerts the RTFC response teams to an emergency are located on the interior of the buildings. No alarms will be placed on the exterior of any surface. Additionally, trucks leaving the facility in response to an emergency will initiate lights first and wait to initiate a siren until it has exited the site and is on the roadway enroute to the situation.
Retention Pond
The pond will have fresh water pumped into it as needed to keep it full. It will also have an aeration system added to decrease unwanted aquatic or pest growth. We are committed to continuously monitor and maintain the pond
Construction Project Update Bulletins are provided by the Refinery Terminal Fire Company (RTFC) for the construction of the new Fire Station and Administrative Building Project (I-37 at McBride Lane). The updates are meant to be a source of information for the Manchester Addition and Dona Park residents and property owners as well as surrounding businesses, municipal and county representatives and RTFC member companies.
These Bulletins are available online at www.rtfc.org/construction, by email (upon request), at St. Theresa Catholic Church (1302 Lantana) and the Local Emergency Planing Committee office for the City of Corpus Christi (2406 Leopard Street).
Construction Update
Separation Fence or Privacy Fence
Currently being installed and once in place, the separation fence (or wall) will receive some colored texturing to give it the look of real stone on both sides. The fence is designed to disrupt and reflect noise and has been successfully added to projects across the state just like this one.
Chain Link Fence Line
Once the rains subside long enough for the grass and weeds along the chain link fence line to dry out, we will begin treating the area to abate the overgrowth. We will be spraying with a product that is not harmful to pets or humans. If you would like to be notified 24 hours prior to any treatment, please contact Carla Gardiner at (361) 816-2798.
Retention Pond
You might be wondering why a retention pond was created on the RTFC property. The pond serves as a way to collect and drain the site in an orderly fashion and slows the flow of water as it moves to the northwest corner of the property. The pond detains the water for a period of time so in the event of a heavy rain fall, it allows the drainage for the surrounding areas to occur into the existing City drainage ways prior to water from the pond being added.
While this design helps to alleviate some of the burden to the City’s drainage system, we are sensitive to the concern that the pond will breed mosquitoes. We have contracted professional services and will continue to monitor the pond and property treating for mosquitoes as it becomes necessary. The ongoing rains have certainly added to mosquito challenge occurring all over town.
What’s Next
Corpus Christi Community Advisory Council
Saturday, November 1 | 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM | RSVP to: 361.945.4925
Zavala Elementary School, 3125 Ruth Street
Topic: Table Top Drill – What to do in the event of a chemical emergency.
Corpus Christi Community Advisory Council
Wednesday, November 5 | 5:30 – 8:00 PM | RSVP to: 361.945.4925
Refinery Terminal Fire Company Training Academy, 3920 Carbon Plant Road
Topic: Family Night – Firefighting demonstrations. Learn chemical event safety and
precaution. Children welcome.
Construction Project Update Bulletins are provided by the Refinery Terminal Fire Company (RTFC) for the construction of the new Fire Station and Administrative Building Project (I-37 at McBride Lane). The updates are meant to be a source of
information for Dona Park residents and property owners as well as surrounding businesses, municipal and county representatives and RTFC member companies.
These Bulletins are available online at www.rtfc.org/construction, by email (upon request), at St. Theresa Catholic Church (1302 Lantana) and the Local Emergency Planing Committee office for the City of Corpus Christi (2406 Leopard Street).
Construction Update
Concrete Pour
In response to the concerns raised about lights and noise in the early morning hours during the latest concrete pour, we have met with the construction team and have determined that an adjustment to a 7:00 AM start for the next large pour will be possible. We remain open to receiving your comments and concerns, and will continue to determine what measures can be taken to strike the right balance between being good neighbors and getting the work completed. Our primary goal is to provide the community with a new fire station so that we can be better responsive to industry when needed.
Separation Fence
You might be interested to know that the prefabricated fence was the first thing ordered before construction began. We had hoped it would be installed before this time to bring relief from the noise and lights of construction. Unfortunately, its delay has been out of our hands and is determined by the manufacturer. We expect construction of the fence to begin the week of Sept 29.
Chain Link Fence
When asked about who is responsible for mowing in the areas between the RTFC chain link and the residential fences, we found this isn’t an easy answer. There are areas where overgrowth is tremendous including trees, vines and thick tall grass. The space between the fences is not uniform in size with residential fence lines sitting on different planes. Some areas are too small to fit a mower or even a person with a handheld piece of equipment. While other properties have extended their fence line to include the land right up to the RTFC chain link fence and have kept it mowed. The other challenge is accessibility. The RTFC fence closes off access at both the North and South ends to eliminate unwelcome pedestrian traffic behind the residential properties. There is access to some of the properties starting at Gale Street. The issue of tremendous overgrowth beyond those homes is still a challenge for offering effective services.
One option which offers accessibility from the RTFC side of the fence for the entire length of the property is spraying. This also takes into consideration the least amount of disruption to back yard pets as well as safety of the unfamiliar person working close to residential properties. We will investigate options for suppressing weeds that will not harm pets or be an irritant to humans.
Mosquitoes
Rainy weather and mosquitoes go hand in hand. We believe the recent uptick in mosquito activity is related to our September showers. However, the retention pond at the Northeast side of the property will continue to be monitored and treated when necessary so as to not contribute to the issue.
Ant Piles
A pest control specialist was called to the property on Monday, September 8 to treat any active piles on the West side of the property. See photos on next page. He will return to the site the week of September 22 to address any new areas.
Rainy conditions such as those recently experienced in Corpus Christi can cause active mounds to become difficult to treat due to blocked or changing tunnels. Drier conditions are an optimal time to locate and treat such pests and arrangements have been made for the follow-up visit.
Trucks on Roadways
We have relayed to the construction team the community concern that some trucks are traveling at rates too fast to safely navigate the intersection at Lantana Road and the access road along I-37. The reality is that not all the trucks that travel this roadway are related to the RTFC project. We encourage everyone to drive safely.
What’s Next
Corpus Christi Community Advisory Council
Saturday, November 1 | 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM | RSVP to: 361.945.4925
Zavala Elementary School, 3125 Ruth Street
Topic: Table Top Drill – What to do in the event of a chemical emergency.
Corpus Christi Community Advisory Council
Wednesday, November 5 | 5:30 – 8:00 PM | RSVP to: 361.945.4925
Refinery Terminal Fire Company Training Academy, 3920 Carbon Plant Road
Topic: Family Night – Fire fighting demonstrations. Learn chemical event safety
precautions. Children welcome.
Construction Project Update Bulletins are provided by the Refinery Terminal Fire Company (RTFC) for the construction of the new Fire Station and Administrative Building Project (I-37 at McBride Lane). The updates are meant to be a source of
information for Dona Park residents and property owners as well as surrounding businesses, municipal and county representatives and RTFC member companies.
These Bulletins are available online at www.rtfc.org/construction, by email (upon request), at St. Theresa Catholic Church (1302 Lantana) and the Local Emergency Planing Committee office for the City of Corpus Christi (2406 Leopard Street).
Construction Update
Concrete Pour
The Administration Building concrete was completed, and the Fire Station will be poured in three larger segments and one smaller pour. The current schedule for early morning pours will take place during the weeks of September 8, 17, 24
and October 10. As a reminder, the placement of concrete mixture during the hotter Texas months requires that it be done while the material is at its coolest temperature. Crews will begin working as early as 4:00 AM on those dates. Any noise from the construction site at that time will include the back-up alerts on the trucks, a pulsing sound from the concrete trucks, and the engine sound of the concrete pump truck as it places the material within the foundation forms.
Separation Fence
The drilled piers for the fence have been installed. Delivery of the prefabricated sections is scheduled for the week of September 8 with an anticipated completion date of September 19 pending any days due to inclement weather.
Chain Link Fence
The chain link fence that surrounds the property will remain in place after the construction is complete for security purposes. It will aid in the prevention of vehicles entering the property particularly at the North end. RTFC will be responsible for maintaining the grass between the separation fence and chain link fence.
Water Connection
We still await scheduling by the City of Corpus Christi for the water connection process.
Water PressureAnt Piles on RTFC property
We have covered the distance of the property along the fence line looking for ant piles that may have raised concern, but have not located any. If there is a particular area you would like to show us, we’d be happy to send someone out to investigate and report back. Call Carla Gardiner to coordinate a day and time when an RTFC representative can meet you.
What is Next
Corpus Christi Community Advisory Council
Thursday, September 11 | 11:30 AM | Flint Hills Resources, 1925 Tuloso Rd.
Topic: Recycling / Workforce Development
Construction Project Update Bulletins are provided by the Refinery Terminal Fire Company (RTFC) for the construction of the new Fire Station and Administrative Building Project (I-37 at McBride Lane). The updates are meant to be a source of
information for Dona Park residents and property owners as well as surrounding businesses, municipal and county representatives and RTFC member companies. These Bulletins are available online at www.rtfc.org/construction, by email (upon request), at St. Theresa Catholic Church (1302 Lantana) and the Local Emergency Planing Committee office for the City of Corpus Christi (2406 Leopard Street).
Construction Update
Concrete Pour
Both the Fire Station and the Administration Building construction will include the pouring of two large concrete slabs. The Administration Building will be a single concrete pour while the Fire Station will be poured in three pieces due to its size. The placement of concrete mixture during the summer months requires that it be done while the material is at its coolest temperature. Therefore, crews will need to begin working as early as 4:00 AM on those days. Any noise from the construction site at that time will include the back-up alerts on the trucks, a pulsing sound from the concrete trucks, and the engine sound of the concrete pump truck as it places the material within the foundation forms. Once the slabs are completed the workday schedule will return to a 7:30 AM or 8:00 AM start time.
Separation Fence
The installation of the fence has been slightly delayed. The placement of concrete support piers is scheduled to start the last week of August and placement of concrete fence posts and panels is scheduled to begin in early or mid-September. The fence design, spanning the distance between 1038 and 1142 Vernon drive, is positioned directly behind the platted area where the new Fire Station and Administration Building will be located. The remaining North side of the property will include a retention pond and natural landscaping. City ordinances limits any extension of the fence beyond the platted area of the property.
Water Connection
We are waiting for the City of Corpus Christi to schedule the water connection process. Since our last update, we have learned that the process will take four to five days from start to finish instead of the two we originally anticipated. The added time includes a series of tests related to pressure and water quality to the new water piping system on the Fire Station site which requires two incremental 24 hour periods of time before pressure and lab results can be obtained, reviewed, and approved by the City. The water tests will run in an eastward direction sending any water flow away from the residential area.
Community Meeting Request
It is our desire to share ongoing and up-todate information about the construction site to the largest number of Dona Park residents and other interested parties as we can. The coordination of a community meeting limits the direct sharing of information to only those willing and able to attend. We have therefore dedicated resources to providing Construction Update Bulletins to over 260 addresses through the completion of the Fire Station and Administration Building. If there is an issue or concern you would like addressed or if you desire clarification about this content, please contact Carla Gardiner at 361-816-2798 or by email at info@rtfc.org.
What is Next
Corpus Christi Community Advisory Council
Thursday, September 11 | 11:30 AM | Flint Hills Resources, 1925 Tuloso Rd.
Topic: Recycling / Workforce Development
This Construction Project Update Bulletin is one of many to be provided by the Refinery Fire Terminal Company (RTFC) for the construction of the new Fire Station and Administrative Building Project (I-37 at McBride Lane). These updates are meant to be a source of information for Dona Park residents and property owners as well as surrounding businesses, municipal and county representatives and RTFC member companies. Project construction began in July of 2014 and is expected to be completed in April of 2015.
RTFC is the largest non-profit industrial firefighting group in the United States. The expertise and services provided by RTFC are sought after by companies around the country and the world. This new facility will offer RTFC’s over 160 expert firefighters/EMTs a more efficient and up-to-date fire station from which to operate.
“As first line responders, safety is our business. We’re here to protect not only our member companies’ operations, but also the communities of Corpus Christi and neighboring towns,” said Chief Hight.
Construction Update
Water Connection
The City of Corpus Christi will be connecting and testing the waterline hook-up which involves digging in the alley/easement area directly behind 1118 Vernon. This process is expected to take two days from start to finish. The construction crew has been instructed to leave no trench or hole exposed overnight.
Separation Fence
Preparation for the installation of the fence will begin the week of August 4. The fence is approximately 684 feet in length and 12-14 feet high. It is designed to line the back of the RTFC property near the alley/ easement of the homes lining the East side of Vernon Drive (spanning the distance between 1038-1142 Vernon). It is a prefabricated concrete wall (images below) and estimated to take 4-6 weeks to install.
