Holyoke, MA – Holyoke Multimodal Transportation Center is a $9 million bus terminal located in Holyoke. Adjacent to the structure, the former Holyoke Fire Department headquarters has been converted into a facility that provides not only bus service, but daycare and preschool programs, as well as adult education classes.
Steeltech Building Products, Inc.of South Windsor, CT was the Architectural Metal Specialty Contractor:
Completed in September 2010, this transportation hub is capable of handling the Pioneer Valley Transit Authority’s public bus traffic, while providing the local population with travel information and a place to wait comfortably for bus arrivals.
“It’s not too often you have the opportunity to build something that appears so sleek with such complex geometry. The combination of arches, angles and warped planes along with tight uniform reveals made this quite a challenge,” said Paul Hollmann of W. J. Mountford Co., the General Contractor for the project. “Mock-ups were used extensively to insure the framing, ceiling panel system and column covers would all meet as the architect had intended. Numerous discussions between our company, the subcontractor and the design team on how best to complete all the project details definitely contributed to the overall success of the project.”
The canopy is constructed of cantilevered structural steel roof girders, a center beam, and eight structural steel columns, giving the terminal an open feel, while providing shelter from the elements.
The swirled brush-finished stainless steel column covers are aesthetically pleasing, as they reflect surrounding light, both day and night. The ceiling is fabricated from Kynar finished aluminum panels which tie aluminum-trimmed arches into the eaves, creating a flowing, modern aesthetic appeal.
The landscaping and site improvements allow the new structure to blend with its surrounding environment, despite its stand-out design.
The terminal provides a visually-striking accent to the primarily brick-clad architecture that dominates the majority of downtown Holyoke.
Jim Alexander, principal at Finegold Alexander + Associates Inc,.said, “We were delighted to join VHB’s team as designers for the bus port canopy at the Holyoke Multimodal Transportation Center. We are working nearby on the Holyoke Public Library and have a long history of work in the City so were extremely pleased to hear at the ribbon-cutting the canopy described as ‘sculptural’ and with a presence that has enlivened the area.”
Another member of the project team, Charles D Michie (“Mickey”), marketing director of Southern Stretch Forming & Fabrication, Inc.of Denton, TX commented, “It’s a challenge anytime you’re curving 3” x 12” pre-painted metal but the precision needed on this job made it more of a challenge. Fortunately Steeltech is easy to work with and we were able to maintain the necessary close communication with them to get the job done.”
Architect for the project wasVanasse Hangen Brustlin, Inc.of Springfield.