BMA Scope

BMA Mechanical+ provided mechanical and plumbing engineering support for the design, permitting, and construction of a major renovation to University Union – Dining Complex Building 19 & 19A on the Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo campus. The project included the main kitchen, catering kitchen, and the entire lower level, focusing on replacement of aging HVAC, plumbing, and kitchen systems to improve functionality, energy efficiency, and long-term reliability. Our team coordinated complex equipment layouts, system integration, and phasing to allow the main kitchen to remain operational while the lower level systems were replaced.

Challenges + Solutions

The project required replacing extensive kitchen and lower-level systems while maintaining partial operation of the main kitchen. BMA Mechanical+ developed phased engineering solutions and detailed sequencing plans to minimize disruptions, coordinated equipment layout and anchorage with multiple manufacturers, and ensured all systems met updated code and performance requirements. Specialized solutions included designing combined waste/vent systems for the lower level, integrating new HVAC and make-up air with the building DDC controls, and accommodating structural modifications for refrigeration equipment pads.

Systems Replaced/Upgraded

• Main and catering kitchen Type 1 hoods with ductwork, fans, controls, and Ansul systems
• HVAC systems for kitchen and lower level, including make-up air with evaporative cooling and indirect-fired heating
• Refrigeration systems with indoor/outdoor equipment pads, line routing, and anchorage
• Domestic hot/cold water and DWV/SS piping, including floor drains and sinks
• Grease waste and combination waste/vent systems
• Mechanical, plumbing, and specialized cookline systems
• Integration with building DDC/controls for monitoring and coordination