Project Spotlight: Fort Sam Houston Department of Nursing

In Fort Sam Houston, healthcare and security intersect at the Department of Nursing Science. Selected by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Satterfield & Pontikes Construction (S&P) undertook the construction of the facility for the US Army Medical Center of Excellence. The split-level structure was built to accommodate lectures, mock operating rooms, laboratories, and specialized classrooms including those made for anesthesia studies. 

 The 52,500 square-foot building features intricate elements throughout the building. You will see crown moldings, chair rails, wall guards, corner guards, golden oak finished wooden windowsills, and acoustic panels that adorn the walls. The intricacies that you may not see are the state-of-the-art electrical infrastructure, with four main electrical rooms and two Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS) units that ensure the safeguarding of the medical equipment.  

What truly sets this facility apart is its exceptional anti-terrorism infrastructure that contributes to the long-term security and resilience of the building. A control gate arm, capable of halting a loaded truck within an 80-foot perimeter of the building, underscores the importance placed on security. A blast-proof curtain window system further fortifies the structure against potential threats. Additionally, a comprehensive Mass Notification system was installed to promptly alert personnel regarding various emergencies, encompassing terrorist alerts, chemical alerts, weather alerts, and fire alerts. The system is Giant Voice compatible and functions independently while being tied to the Fire Alarm system. Entry into the facility is controlled through a swipe card system, which is closely monitored by an integrated camera network, maintaining a high level of security, ensuring the continued safety of the facility and its personnel. 

 This project displays S&P’s enduring commitment to building healthcare projects that aid our military and their continuing education. To acknowledge their exceptional contribution, the USACE Fort Worth District’s San Antonio Area Office recognized S&P with the Operation Reward Safety for the 3rd Quarter of FY07 Medium Contract Award. 

November 9, 2023