Homer Thornberry Federal Building Project: BAS Upgrade

Location: Austin, Texas
Region: GSA Region 7
Project Objective: Automation and Controls Upgrade

The Homer Thornberry Federal Building, located in downtown Austin, Texas, was originally built in 1965 as a postal facility. A renovation in the early 1990s transformed it into a courthouse and federal building. Spanning 178,223 square feet across three full floors and a partial fourth, the building is a key federal structure near the Texas State Capitol. It forms part of a master complex, including a large plaza and a tunnel connecting it to the J.J. Pickle Federal Building.

Saturn Enterprises successfully managed the completion of the BAS upgrade for the Homer Thornberry Federal Building. This project involved replacing obsolete devices to ensure seamless communication and functionality in line with GSA standards. Key aspects of the upgrade included:

Demolition and Infrastructure Setup

  • Removal of outdated JACE hardware.
  • Installation of CAT-6 IP lines throughout the building.
  • Rebuilt controller panels, running panduit for optimal cable management and organization.

System Upgrade and Conversion

Transitioning from an MSTP network of legacy controllers to BACnet IP controllers for:

  • Built-up air handling units.
  • Chiller and condensing water plant.
  • Domestic water system.
  • Boiler plant.

Integration and Optimization

  • Complete integration of legacy MSTP devices and Modbus devices on the Tridium Niagara platform.
  • Development of accessible, fully integrated system graphics and software.

The upgraded BAS system is now fully functional and aligned with the federal sustainability plan, significantly reducing the building’s carbon footprint. Final commissioning and system checks are scheduled for the coming weeks.

At Saturn Enterprises, we take pride in the success of this project and look forward to continuing grow in the federal market, helping clients optimize building performance and sustainability.

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