GE Johnson tops out Pikes Peak Summit Complex ahead of shortened winter schedule
Last month, GE Johnson and Peak Custom Fabrication crews erected and installed the highest steel beam on the Pikes Peak Summit Complex. Per tradition, the beam was flanked by the American and Colorado state flags.
The Pikes Peak Summit Complex project achieved many milestones recently: Building mockups were constructed for materials testing and structural window testing was completed in September, passing the stringent requirement for this project. Additionally, the exterior envelope mock-up is in its second revision to coordinate final details of window, waterproofing, steel plate sills and shutter design. The concrete foundations are complete, and the precast wall placement and Permatrak systems for the Central Permatrack boardwalks were both completed in October.
Structural steel installations for the frame and detail roof are nearly complete. Structural steel will be 90% complete this season. The roof decking will be installed next season due to window testing.
In the next few weeks, crews will complete the installation of roof slabs, interior slab and temporary window assemblies that will facilitate the build-out of the mechanical and electrical rooms, as well as interior finishes in the level 100 public areas through this winter. All remaining exterior activities will be completed next season.
Replacing the existing visitor’s center, which was constructed in 1963, the Pikes Peak Summit Complex is the highest ongoing construction site in North America. Constructing this challenging project will create a facility that takes advantage of the inspiring views and natural beauty of Pikes Peak – America’s Mountain.
Started in June 2018, the complex is expected to take three years to complete. With a short work season atop the mountain (late spring to late fall, weather permitting), each day’s shift is shortened to keep workers safe from the effects that can be suffered at altitude.
Published in the Dec. 18-31, 2019, issue of CREJ.
