Arkansas – Work has begun on a major project to replace the aging brick facade on the Arkansas Department of Transportation central office building. The renovation, expected to take approximately one year, aims to improve safety, insulation, and durability while reducing costs.
A construction crew is currently removing the distressed brick facade from the exterior of the building and replacing it with exterior insulation and finish system (EIFS) panels.
These panels offer improved weather protection and insulation while being more cost-effective than a full brick replacement. To facilitate the project, temporary scaffolding has been installed around the perimeter of the building.
The need for repairs was first identified in 2009 when a section of the brick facade above the main entrance was replaced due to deterioration of the brick shelf supports.
Following that repair, a consultant was brought in to evaluate the condition of the remaining facade. Continued monitoring determined that the brick, originally installed in 1966, had deteriorated to a point where replacement was necessary for safety reasons.
“The use of EIFS panels will address the safety issues, provide weather protection for the building, and provide a similar appearance without the higher cost of full brick replacement,” said Steve Frisbee, ARDOT Assistant Chief Engineer of Maintenance.
The project represents a long-term investment in the stability and efficiency of ARDOT’s central office, ensuring the building remains safe and functional for years to come.