Cattaraugus Early Childhood Learning Center

Project Highlights

The Seneca Nation of Indians Early Childhood Learning Center (ECLC), located on the Cattaraugus Reservation, is a state-of-the-art facility providing comprehensive childcare and development services for children ages six weeks to twelve years. Operating year-round with both Daycare and After-School programs, the center was designed to meet or exceed Head Start standards, NYS Child and Family Services Environmental Health and Safety Codes, the NFPA Life Safety Code, and ADA requirements. Serving up to 400 children, the project emphasized both safety and flexibility while adapting to budget constraints, including the redesign of the original geothermal system to a more cost-effective water source heat pump system.

M/E Role

M/E Engineering designed the HVAC systems with slab heating in classrooms and the Port Cochere, a water source heat pump system, ventilation, exhaust, and a direct digital building management system. Plumbing design included all domestic water, sanitary, storm, vent, and gas systems. Fire protection featured a complete system layout with hydraulic calculations and dry pipe systems for covered exterior areas. Electrical systems covered new power service, fire alarm, security with door access, low voltage, lighting, cable TV, clocks, and site lighting for parking and outdoor play areas.