GRDA Administrative Center

The new GRDA center consolidates resources and personnel.

Since its start in 1935, the Grand River Dam Authority in Oklahoma has grown to become the state’s largest public power utility.

There are many positives to rapid growth. However, sometimes it comes with a set of challenges as well. Recently, there has been a division of resources and personnel. With multiple facilities in various locations, there wasn’t a one-stop shop for GRDA consumers and customers.

Until now.

In the fall of 2022, Crossland completed a $16.3 million project that gave GRDA a center that houses all of its administrative functions and staff. Located in Chouteau, Oklahoma, the 48,000 SF center boasts fantastic features that make it the ideal location for GRDA and its constituents.

The exterior of the three-story facility includes eight concrete balconies, each with 37-foot structural columns. There is also a courtyard with benches made of natural stone harvested from the land, synthetic turf, and landscaping. Specialty Bilinite concrete was used throughout the exterior finishes.

Inside, the exquisite structure features Terrazzo flooring, wood walls and ceilings, a modern-style staircase, a multi-purpose training room, frameless glass conference room, 24/7 fitness room, and a storm shelter.

Supply chain issues caused unique challenges during this project. For example, steel had a lead time of 37 weeks when it typically runs around 8 to 12 weeks. The Glue Lam Beams for the balconies took nine months to get in, and there was also a delay in the roofing materials.

To ensure we delivered the project on time and in budget, Crossland’s team worked smart, taking a proactive approach that didn’t waste any time. While waiting for specific materials to arrive, the crew erected what red iron steel they could, set forms, and performed other site work that could be completed. Crossland also worked with specific plastic materials to enclose the balconies early so the rest of the building could be enclosed.

Another unique challenge was that the blowdown line, used to depressurize the system, ran directly across the building site, and the plant couldn’t be shut down for more than 24 hours. Crossland worked with the owner to move the line in 12-hour shifts while shutting down to drill and prep two new maintenance holes.

Communication was key to solving any challenges that arose. The result, an administration center for GRDA that benefits the whole company, its consumers, and the state of Oklahoma.

Project Facts

Cost: $1,241,554
Size: 47,386 SF
Delivery Method: Construction Management
Owner: Grand River Dam Authority
Architect: Cyntergy
Engineer: Cyntergy