Two VHB projects have been recognized as 2024 Best Projects by Engineering News-Record (ENR) MidAtlantic. The General Assembly Building (GAB) of Virginia and the Longwood University Joan Perry Brock Center and Tennis Courts were both recognized with an Award of Merit in the Government/Public Building category and Sports/Entertainment category, respectively.
As one of the newest additions to Richmond, Virginia’s downtown, the GAB is home to the Virginia state legislature, providing committee rooms, a cafeteria, and meeting facilities, as well as legislator and staff offices. In collaboration with Robert A.M. Stern Architects LLP, the primary architect on the project, and the Gilbane-led construction team, VHB enhanced the site’s connectivity for users and visitors to the adjacent parking deck and Capitol Square grounds, while also helping the team overcome site challenges that included drainage, utilities, and permitting. The new 15-story building was constructed on the historic footprint of the original building, incorporating the 1912 limestone façade and complimenting Richmond’s traditional architecture.
An hour west of Richmond at Longwood University in Farmville, the Joan Perry Brock Center and Tennis Courts have brought new energy to the heart of campus. As a teaming partner to RRMM Architects, VHB provided civil engineering and landscape architecture services to connect this focal point of activity and interaction with the surrounding established buildings.
As the home to Longwood’s basketball program, the arena will also host a variety of events for students, faculty, and visitors, including lectures, concerts, and convocations. In addition to the arena, the design includes two tiers of tennis courts, a viewing area, and a modified parking area to serve the tennis complex and adjacent baseball field.
“VHB is proud to have the GAB and the Longwood University Joan Perry Brock Center and Tennis Courts recognized with ENR Awards of Merit,” said Charlene Harper, PE, PLA, LEED AP, VHB’s I-64 Land Development Service Director, who served as the project manager on the Longwood University project. “These projects exemplify VHB’s ability to effectively balance functionality and design innovation.”
ENR Best Project-level winners are recognized for their ability to overcome challenges and their overall contributions to the industry and community.
To see the full list of the 2024 MidAtlantic Best Project award winners, visit ENR’s Mid-Atlantic Awards page.