Minnesota State Emergency Operations Center: Engineering Resilience for Critical Response

Project Overview

BKBM provided structural engineering services for the State Emergency Operations Center in Blaine, MN. The project is meant to provide a facility that can operate and sustain itself during extreme weather events at critical moments where officials can direct critical support operations for the citizens of Minnesota.

Project Highlights

• ICC 500 Storm Shelter:
  • Designed to shelter occupants in the event of a 250-mph tornado
  • Intended to remain operational for at least two hours during a storm event
• Enhanced Performance:
  • The main structure is designed for wind speeds of 160 mph
  • Functionality of interior space necessitated structural system selection to provide increased resiliency

Engineering Solutions

Solid precast concrete walls are used to frame the exterior – providing a durable back-up and optimizing speed of construction. Composite beams and joists frame the floors and roof systems to provide uplift resistance, durability, and resilience for the structure. Angles, glass, limestone veneer, and critical communication systems all called on a diligent focus on details, coordination, and constructability throughout the process.

Results & Impact

Whenever a major event occurs that requires a coordinated response from the state of Minnesota, this is meant to be a stalwart structure where critical communications and decisions can take place without undue concern for the operation of the facility.