Equestrian Center Takes Shape

Becker Structural Engineers (BSE) is proud to serve as the Structural Engineering consultant for the revitalization of the Pineland Center in Gray, Maine. The former state facilities were purchased by the Libra Foundation and are now undergoing a transformation into a business campus. Two adjacent farm properties now known as the Hill Farm and Valley farm are also being restored and, across Route 231 at Hill Farm, a therapeutic equestrian riding center is being built. The state-of-the-art facility will allow riders of all ages, especially children, to gain from the experience of interacting with these gentle horses. The project team for the equestrian center includes Boulos Property Management, Orcutt Associates, Pizzagalli Construction and Becker Structural Engineers. The Mechanical and Electrical Systems will be provided on a design-build basis.

The center includes a 100’X 260’ riding arena, two 6,000 square foot stables to accommodate 30 horses, tack and feed and a 19,000 square foot office/administration area. The structural engineering issues for the facility were complex due to the interaction of three distinct building systems used to frame the facility. Each system was selected to meet the load, schedule and budget criteria for the project. The stables are framed in wood, using a mix of dimensional and engineered lumber products. The engineered lumber is fabricated using low-grade wood with adhesives to create a framing member with strength to weight ratios greater than dimensional lumber. These products are also available in lengths up to 45’, reducing the number of components which must be handled and erected in the field. The office/admin area utilizes steel framing with a mix of hot rolled steel beams, cold-formed steel roof joists and open web floor joists. Low roof areas which must support the potentially high loads due to drifting and sliding snow are framed with hot rolled steel beams and steel deck. Energy efficiency is maintained with an 8" wall stud system, radiant floor heating and insulated roof panels. The main arena is being supplied as a complete building package by a fabricator, with BSE designing the foundation system for the specified loads. The interface of these three buildings requires specific detailing to allow thermal and structural movements of up to 2" to occur without causing any distress to building components or finishes.

Construction of the foundation has begun for the stables, and framing will follow. By spring, the superstructure of the arena and office will be taking shape.

Paul B. Becker, P.E.
Becker Structural Engineers, Inc.
19 Commercial St.
Portland, ME 04101
207.879.1838
FAX 207.879.1822
www.beckerstructural.com