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The Verdict: It Is the Navy's Premier Courtroom

Navy NewsStand

Story Number: NNS080730-14
Release Date: 7/30/2008 8:36:00 PM

By Denise Calabria, Naval Facilities Engineering Command Washington Public Affairs

WASHINGTON (NNS) -- A ribbon-cutting ceremony held July 15 formally introduced the newly renovated Building 58, now transformed into a courtroom at the Washington Navy Yard.

Built in 1859, the structure initially served as a Marine barracks, and in the 1980's was converted to a Marine museum.

In September 2006, Naval Facilities Engineering Command (NAVFAC) Washington awarded a $14.5 million design/build contract to Whiting-Turner Contracting Co., headquartered in Baltimore, for the complete renovation of Building 58 which was to be transformed into a center for military justice. The company was charged with providing a first-class courtroom for judicial proceedings of the Office of the Judge Advocate General (OJAG). The first case to be heard in the new courtroom is scheduled for Aug. 5.

Facility requirements included both public and restricted entry; a courtroom facility with full audio/visual capability, offices, deliberation room, a witness holding area, judicial proceedings support spaces, file storage, restrooms, shower and locker room and security and life safety systems housed throughout more than 48,000 square feet. Prior to the renovation, the building was completely gutted so only the historic, brick shell remained.

"This is the first building that incorporates the progressive-collapse system that came out after the terrorist attacks of 9/11, wherein if a truck were to explode outside the building, it would not collapse like a pancake," said Igor Boras, NAVFAC Washington project manager engineer.

The progressive-collapse system is an internal stabilization technique designed to enhance structural integrity should a portion of an edifice be compromised.

"This building has exceeded our expectations," said Lt. Cmdr. Ryan Davis, OJAG facilities officer.

"I am happy that we all worked together and accomplished what we were to do for the Navy," said Boras. "We accomplished the mission."

For more news from Naval Facilities Engineering Command, visit www.navy.mil/local/navfachq/.