The PDX canopy spans the entrance to the airport like a glass bird frozen in flight. Creating this architectural leap of faith across the emplaning lanes was complicated by engineering challenges, the need to keep the airport running without disruption and some tight budget and schedule constraints.
Originally, plans called for a budget of $14 million and a 12-month construction schedule. When Hoffman came on board we worked closely with the Port of Portland and the architects of KPFF to find a better way. The expensive three-cord truss design with wide flanges was modified to a simpler two-chord truss, and square steel girders were replaced with more-available tubular steel – which the architects agreed looked better.
The value engineering solutions reduced the cost to around $12 million. A highly-detailed 400-page work plan kept the project on track, and prevented it from impacting the public at the airport's "front door." The project was finished six weeks ahead of the planned 25-week goal – over half a year ahead of the original schedule.