COMMERCIAL/HIGH TECH

Choosing an electrical contractor for a large commercial project involves both "subjective" and "objective" considerations.

Objective considerations generally come down to price. Beyond simply submitting the lowest bid, Kirby Electric has been able to help many commercial developers satisfy pricing pressures through value engineering. The experienced Kirby team is skilled at reviewing plans and, in cooperation with the project's electrical engineers, developing alternative electrical solutions to meet budget constraints.

Subjective considerations are less clear-cut. Many commercial projects, for example, may have critical seasonal, or occupancy-driven deadlines. Other projects may require highly sophisticated data-highways and computer systems.

Kirby's highly disciplined management structure, and sophisticated experience levels have made them the clear choice in commercial electrical contracting.

The upgrade of the fire alarm system in the 64-story USX Tower was the largest such retrofit in Pittsburgh history. Running 2 shifts, and coordinating all work with building management and security staffs, Kirby replaced the outdated "coded" alarm with a state-of-the-art intelligent, addressable system. Over 5,000 alarm devices - including ceiling speakers, strobe lights, smoke detectors, pull stations and fireman's emergency telephone systems were installed with minimal disruption to the building tenants.

The twin-towers of Liberty Center occupy an entire block in the heart of Pittsburgh, combining a 23-story, 620 room hotel; a 25-story, 604,000 square foot office tower; a 600 car parking garage; along with a health club, restaurants, and retail space. Among the "bright spots" of Kirby's $12+ million contract was the installation of over 42,000 individually mounted chandelier crystals!

PNC Bank's National Data Center is the "brains" of a vast financial network. The job entailed huge switch gear and emergency generators. Incoming electrical service is constantly monitored through sophisticated equipment, in which even a minimal variation instantly activates the emergency generators and other back-up equipment to insure uninterrupted power supply.

Working on a "fast-track" schedule due to occupancy-driven needs, Kirby delivered the goods for Roadway Packaging Systems. The new 344,000 square foot, state-of-the-art headquarters and data center included the installation of 6,500 individual lighting fixtures, and a complete television/multi-media production studio.

Kirby was the prime electrical contractor on the 300,000 square foot Center of Science and Industry in Columbus, Ohio. A magnet for students, educators and tourists throughout middle America, COSI combines exhibit areas, restaurant and retail space, the domed Space Theater, and the six-story, state-of-the-art Iwerks 3-D Linear Loop projection theater.