Commissioning service for the new construction of a tourist center off the New York Thruway

Capital Region Welcome Center

This new welcome center needed a creative solution to shoe-horn it into a constrained site, maintain traffic safety, and create an aesthetically pleasing design—while highlighting the many special tourist attractions of New York’s Capital Region. Our contribution? Stantec Commissioning was contracted to undertake the functional testing of major mechanical, electrical, and plumbing (MEP) systems. These systems included boilers, hydronic pumps, rooftop units, and cabinet unit heaters along with VAV terminal units, exhaust fans, and ductless split systems. Our engineers, architects, and designers collaborated closely with the New York State Thruway Authority and other stakeholders on the project.

The new Capital Region Welcome Center leads to one of the most unique regions in the state, not only because of Albany’s grand, palatial 19th- century state capital building, but also because of Saratoga’s famous racetrack and performing arts center. Modern-day attractions are reflected in the building, as is the area’s history going back to the 1600s and Dutch West India Company’s Fort Orange.

Combining charging stations for electric cars, a motorcycle shelter, parking, and a music-themed play area—and integrated solar panels that minimize use of electricity—with the regional showcases, the new welcome center successfully achieves the goal of encouraging travelers to discover the wonders of the Capital Region.