At the WMEP Downtown K-12 Interdistrict School, learning is truly a unique experience. The school, comprised of students from nine school districts, is located in the heart of Minneapolis’ downtown business community. Curriculum is enhanced through real-life experiences garnered from surrounding institutions such as the YMCA and YWCA, University of St. Thomas, MacPhail Center for the Arts and Minneapolis Public Library.

As everything within the WMEP is geared toward educating, so too are the mechanical and electrical systems. Much of the ductwork, wiring systems and lighting are exposed giving students a first hand understanding of a building’s operation. This openness also facilitates maintenance and future renovation or expansion plans. The architects also wanted to incorporate an "industrial" feel to the building, thus we chose warehouse-type, high bay, metal halide fixtures, as well as industrial-type fluorescent fixtures with egg-crate louvers, to give the facility the desired lighting appearance.

To keep the flow of communication running smoothly throughout the entire school, our engineers designed voice/data distribution systems including PBX (telephone switch), voice mail, cross connection systems, a complete paging and intercom system and a video/television headend and distribution system.

Indoor air quality is a crucial aspect of every facility, but in light of the fact that the school is located over an underground parking lot, it was particularly important at this facility. In order to establish a healthy learning environment, our team collaborated with the American Lung Association, the Minneapolis School District and other members of the consulting team. The result was a healthy building with engineering systems that meet indoor air quality objectives, are energy efficient and educational.