Sustainable innovation takes flight: modernizing military air operations in Hawaii

The challenge

Naval Facilities Engineering Systems Command (NAVFAC) Pacific tasked GHD, as a team member with dck-ecc guam Joint Venture, to modernize and consolidate critical air operations facilities at Marine Corps Air Station (MCAS) in Kaneohe, Hawaii. The project required integrating diverse functions within a constrained historic and coastal site, presenting unique challenges.

The corrosive coastal environment demanded robust material design solutions, while proximity to active runways necessitated careful acoustic planning, especially for the AFRS. Stringent anti-terrorism force protection requirements were balanced with creating a welcoming terminal space that could efficiently provide passenger check-in, security, agriculture inspections and baggage handling.

As the welcoming gateway for military personnel and families arriving in Hawaii, the terminal facility extends a warm aloha spirit while educating visitors about this unique destination. The design team crafted an integrated solution combining interior architecture, signage and exhibits to effectively communicate vital information about Hawaiian history, ecology, invasive species and cultural heritage within the terminal's limited space.

Sustainability was a key priority, with ambitious goals set for LEED Silver certification for the terminal and LEED Gold for the AFRS. This required innovative approaches to energy management and resource efficiency in both buildings, despite their energy-intensive operations. 

Our response

RIM’s innovative design approach developed robust building envelopes using durable materials and custom window systems, meeting anti-terrorism requirements while providing excellent acoustic performance, particularly crucial for the AFRS and the Air Station Operations facility.

Sustainability was woven into every aspect of the design, integrating energy-efficient systems and materials throughout. Our team spearheaded the use of photovoltaics at all available flat roofs and over the parking area, a successful innovation that set new standards for energy efficiency for Hawaii military installations. 

The 30,700-sf terminal design balances security requirements with an open, welcoming atmosphere. It efficiently accommodates passenger check-in, security checkpoints, agriculture inspections, departure lounge, baggage claim and a full-service restaurant. A grand lobby featuring interpretive displays of WWII-era artifacts and a floor-mounted photographic map commemorates Kaneohe's pivotal role as the site of the first engagement on December 7, 1941. The thoughtfully designed exhibits educate incoming Marines about the peninsula's sacred significance in Hawaiian history.

The impact

The MCAS Operations Complex streamlined processes and delivered sustainable facilities that transformed the base's operational landscape. Consolidation and modernization of critical air operations significantly improved overall efficiency and mission readiness.

This sustainable design reduced the base's environmental impact, setting a new benchmark for environmentally conscious military infrastructure. Enhanced acoustic design in the AFRS and Operations Facility improved quality of life for firefighters and airport operations, enhancing morale and performance.

The welcoming terminal design creates a positive and impactful first impression while maintaining security, seamlessly integrating military necessity and community engagement.

The project earned industry recognition, including the 2015 Merit Award in the Design-Build/Design-Assist Category from the General Contractors Association of Hawaii and the 2015 Design-Build Project/Team Award in Aviation from the National Design-Build Institute of America. More importantly, it serves as a model for future military infrastructure, demonstrating that operational excellence, sustainability and cultural respect can coexist harmoniously in modern military facilities.