Coreslab Structures provided precast concrete components for the Arkansas Department of Emergency Management’s (ADEM) tornado shelter project. This project was a unique design challenge that required a functional, safe, and attractive work environment that could operate twenty-four hours a day, seven days a week, and house employees and state officials for extended periods of time in the event of a tornado, emergency, or disaster.
To meet the requirements for protecting occupants and valuable equipment from a category F-4 tornado, Coreslab Structures provided a total of 214 precast components, including 5″ and 7″ solid wall panels with an exposed aggregate, sandblasted exterior finishes with reveals. The native gray aggregate in the area was chosen for the wall panels, as it suited the natural environment around the project location and provided a pleasing appearance for occupants, state officials, and visitors.
Completed in 2006, the precast concrete components of the project provided the necessary impact and wind load performance to ensure the safety of the occupants and equipment. As a result, the Arkansas Department of Emergency Management was able to provide a secure shelter for its employees and state officials.
