First State Bank Nebraska

Summarize the project's program, features and achievements?

A new 6,164-square-foot bank building was constructed to replace the existing facility. Exterior façade finishes include metal panels, textured paint, and stone accents. Site improvements consisted of the complete replacement of the concrete parking lot, including new curb and gutter systems, sidewalks, extensive landscaping, a large retaining wall, and a storm water detention cell.

The building was primarily constructed using tilt-up concrete panels, supplemented with conventional framing where required. The roof system consists of bar joists, metal deck, and an EPDM roofing membrane. Large storefront windows and a prominent vestibule entry provide abundant natural light and an inviting customer experience. Interior finishes include ceramic tile and carpet tile flooring, 6 -inch milled vinyl base, and painted wall finishes throughout.

What obstacles were overcome related to the schedule, budget, program, specification, site, etc. on this project?

The project required the demolition of an existing building prior to the start of construction. To maintain business continuity, the Owner was required to temporarily relocate during construction, making an accelerated schedule essential so operations could resume as quickly as possible.

In addition to the new building construction, longstanding site drainage and flooding issues needed to be addressed. Existing site soils were determined to be unsuitable for building support, requiring a surcharge program to stabilize the subgrade before foundation work could begin.

The site presented additional challenges due to its steep topography. Significant rainfall early in the project created difficult site conditions, including erosion control concerns, muddy work areas, and limited access for personnel and equipment. The constrained site also restricted crane setup locations and reduced available space for casting tilt -up panels, requiring careful planning and coordination throughout the construction process.

Please communicate any engineering complexities or unique features of the panel design for this project?

The facility’s small footprint required careful planning and coordination for the layout and use of casting beds. Column-free corners required temporary erection legs, which were removed after the panels were placed and the corner connections were completed. Several panels included uniquely shaped openings to accommodate bank equipment, such as the drive-thru drawer and vacuum tube system.

Rustication bands were returned on panel ends to align with adjacent inset panels, maintaining a consistent architectural appearance. Panels at one corner of the building were designed for a longer unbraced length to accommodate the exterior grade change.