REVITALIZING THE EXELON ATLANTIC CITY ELECTRIC OPERATIONAL CONTROL CENTER

Introduction:

As we come to the close of 2023, we want to look back and highlight some of our most successful projects of the year. One of these projects included the renovation of the Exelon Atlantic City Electric Operational Control Center, headed by Sr. Project Manager, Brent Melton. The property underwent a transformative journey, shedding its dated infrastructure for a state-of-the-art workspace. REMS, a trusted name in commercial construction project management, spearheaded the project, aiming to revamp the control room that had remained largely unchanged since the 1980s. In this case study, we delve into the key strategies, challenges, and outcomes of this remarkable endeavor.

Background:

Situated in Mays Landing, the regional office served as the control center for Atlantic City Energy’s electric grid for the whole region. The control center, dating back to the early 80s, featured LED display boards, outdated furniture, carpeting, and lighting. Recognizing the need for a significant overhaul, executive management invested in a complete demolition and redesign, bringing in REMS to lead the way in critical construction project management.

Overcoming Obstacles:

The project faced its share of challenges, including the necessity of working in an occupied 24/7 space and navigating firm NERC-CIP security restrictions. The team tackled these complexities head-on. Temporary workspaces were identified, upgraded, and phased employee moves ensured construction proceeded on schedule without disrupting operations. This level of awareness, combined with a detailed, coordinated effort by the entire project team, ensured not a single violation occurred during construction—an achievement that stands testament to the team's commitment to excellence. In the face of these challenges, the REMS team demonstrated not only technical expertise but also a profound understanding of the operational intricacies of a control center. The result was a project that not only met deadlines but surpassed expectations, proving that even within the constraints of a 24/7 environment with high-security protocols, innovation and efficiency can thrive.

Innovations and Upgrades:

The revamped control center boasts cutting-edge technology, including control console upgrades, a three-zoned media wall, a training and simulator room. The addition of a second-floor mezzanine, collaboration spaces, and a new cafe aimed to enhance the work environment for shift workers, fostering a sense of home for those spending long hours in the space. This innovative architectural design was a key component of the streamlined commercial renovation management strategy. The renovated space now adheres to Exelon standards, incorporating updated technology in alignment with their Workplace and Occupancy Strategy.

Efficient Project Management:

Our PM Brent Melton, with a wealth of experience in similar ventures, emphasized proactive problem-solving. Early identification of potential issues during the construction phase allowed for swift resolutions, minimizing costly change orders and ensuring the project's timely completion. As Melton put it, “Instead of ripping walls back open and trying to fix problems, we've already addressed them, we've already found them. We've already got ahead of them and made the changes we needed to make during the construction and not doing costly change orders or corrections after what we thought we were done.” By being on site and hands-on through the entire process, Melton and his team finished ahead of schedule. In all, collaboration with the general contractor and effective teamwork streamlined the entire project, showcasing REMS' expertise in construction project management services.

Transparent Communication with Exelon:

Communication emerged as a linchpin for success, particularly in dealings with Exelon. Transparency and open dialogue were crucial in addressing challenges. The project manager highlighted Exelon's receptiveness and positive feedback, creating a collaborative atmosphere that contributed significantly to the project's success.

Employee Appreciation:

The positive attitudes of the employees working in the space played a pivotal role in the project's success. Shift workers, appreciative of the improvements, expressed their gratitude. “The employees loved it,” said PM Brent Melton. "When it was all finally presented to them, it really made them feel like they're appreciated, and it really allowed them to do the job a lot better with the new state-of-the-art materials and tools at their fingertips.” Their positive feedback reflected the success of the project in creating a workspace that truly met their needs and expectations. This positive response aligns with trusted commercial construction management practices. 

Conclusion:

The Atlantic City Electric Operational Control Center project stands as a testament to effective project management, innovation, and collaborative efforts. The integration of modern technology, employee-centric design, and transparent communication with Exelon resulted in a successful overhaul that exceeded expectations and finished ahead of schedule. As we reflect on this case study, it becomes clear that revitalizing a workspace requires not only technical expertise but a deep understanding of the needs and expectations of the people who inhabit it. With REMS at the helm, this project seamlessly combined commercial construction, critical project management, and streamlined commercial renovation management for an exceptional outcome.