Size: 19,808 sq ft
Total Construction: 57 weeks
ICF Installation Time: 68 days
General Contractor & ICF Installer: Groen Construction Inc.
Form Distributor: Atlantic Builder Supply Northeast
Architect: SMP Architecture
Constructing the new Bristol Public Safety Building was a complex endeavor, given its steeply sloped site and the need to support 12 feet of backfill. The design also required a resilient structure to accommodate police, fire and EMS services while withstanding New England’s harsh winters. Sustainability, energy efficiency and operational functionality were critical to the project’s success.
Nudura Insulated Concrete Forms (ICFs) played a pivotal role in overcoming these challenges. Groen Construction leveraged the strength of the 12-inch core Nudura ICF walls to retain the substantial backfill while ensuring structural integrity from the foundation to the roofline. The resulting highly insulated and airtight shell eliminated heat loss during the winter and reduced temporary heating costs during construction.
The thermal mass and continuous insulation are anticipated to yield 40–50% annual energy savings compared to traditional building methods. Fire Chief Ben LaRoche commended the energy efficiency and longevity of the Nudura solution, which will deliver long-lasting protection for Bristol’s emergency services and the community.