Latest News

PS&S Purchases Becica Associates

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Expands Presence in Education and Public Projects

Builds Out South Jersey Footprint

WARREN, N.J., March 27, 2024 — PS&S, a full-service architecture, engineering, design, surveying, and environmental firm with more than a 60-year history, today announced that it has purchased Becica Associates LLC, Cherry Hill, NJ., an architectural firm with a reputation for excellence in the design of public buildings.

“Becica Associates is known as the ‘go to’ firm for public buildings—whether that is K-12 schools and higher ed—or government projects at the state and even Federal level,” said PS&S President and CEO John Sartor.  “Having this team join is significant for PS&S as we look to build our presence in both education and South Jersey where Becica is particularly well known and highly regarded.”

With roots that date back to 1964, Becica Associates is a second-generation firm of architects and engineers that was formed in 2000 by Ivan Becica, PE, F. ASCE, Steven Becica, AIA and John Middleton, PE.

“We are delighted to now be evolving our firm to the next level of growth with PS&S, who we have long felt would be a perfect partner,” said Steven Becica, Principal. “As a result of this combination, our team will now have virtually all the architectural and engineering solutions needed for public buildings of all kinds – under one roof. It’s a plus for us, our clients and the larger community of developers in New Jersey”

In the education sector, Becica has worked with more than 50 different Boards of Education in New Jersey. Projects include K-12 and higher education, as well as Abbott Districts and early childhood.

In the government sector, Becica was retained by the Federal GSA to design the seven-story 180,000 sq. ft. Mitchell H. Cohen Federal Courthouse in Camden, NJ.

“As we look out to the future of our firm and the State of New Jersey, we see important opportunities — and indeed necessary steps to be taken – in addressing the problem of aging infrastructure,” said John Middleton, Principal. “The built environment stock in the public sector is getting older and, together with PS&S, our focus will be on repairing, replacing and maintaining public buildings for the future.”

“In 2020, PS&S set an ambitious five-year strategic growth plan which called for the addition of new partners and sector expertise, as well as greater geographic reach,” concluded Sartor. “The acquisition of Becica checks all those boxes and, as we soon set forth a new plan for the Year 2030, we heartily welcome Steve, John and their team to the PS&S family.”

About PS&S

Founded in 1962, PS&S has evolved into a unique best-in-class architecture, engineering, surveying, and environmental consulting firm, providing design and consultation services to a wide range of public, corporate, institutional and commercial clients. PS&S is ranked among the top national design firms by Engineering News Record (and among the top 15 national engineering firms in pharmaceuticals). Recognized both for its breadth of services and depth of expertise, PS&S is the single source for planning, permitting and design at the local, State and Federal levels. To learn more, please visit www.psands.com.

Media Contact:

Deborah Kostroun

201-403-8185

deborah@zitopartners.com

Haddonfield Public Schools – Bond Referendum

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Photos by Matt Wargo

The Haddonfield Public School District, located in Camden County, NJ, delivers K-12 education to 2,700 students in four schools. The District schools occupy approximately 20 acres of land with a total of 461,400 square feet of building space.

The iconic Haddonfield Memorial High School, constructed in 1927, and the Elizabeth Haddon Elementary school, constructed in 1913, are excellent examples of colonial design and contribute to the historic Architecture of Haddonfield.

Becica Associates provided Architectural and Engineering services for the project, which included a detailed condition assessment and project formation study as part of the District’s long-range planning efforts. BA’s study prioritized facility needs to address aging infrastructure, building façade and structural deterioration, classroom air conditioning, and upgrades to educational space.

Reconstruction, renovations, and repairs were needed at the Haddonfield Memorial High School and Stadium, Central Elementary/Haddonfield Middle School, Elizabeth Haddon Elementary School, and J. Fithian Tatem Elementary School. Restoration work required careful detailing and material selection to preserve the historic character of the schools. Work generally included masonry façade restoration and complete exterior wall replacement, structural repairs, and window and roof replacement. Upgrades to heating, ventilation, air conditioning systems, and building automation control systems were also included. Site work consisted of replacement of underground utilities, storm drainage, sidewalks, and vehicular drop-off areas.

Pinelands Regional High School

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Pinelands Regional School District, Little Egg Harbor, NJ, provides 7-12 education to 1,600 students in two schools.

The Pinelands Regional High School was constructed in 1978 during a period of rapid growth in the region. The school serves roughly 800 students in 193,000 square feet of building space with 55,400 square feet of exterior wall area.

Alerted by the telltale signs of moisture intrusion and underlying deterioration of the façade, the District retained Becica Associates to evaluate the condition of the building’s façade.  BA performed several investigations which revealed deterioration of the plaster soffits and brick masonry veneer and significant primary structural steel corrosion. Critically affected portions of the building were deemed unsafe to occupy.

As a subconsultant to Garrison Architects, Becica Associates provided design and construction phase services for work on 55,404 square feet of exterior wall and 800 square feet of concrete floor slabs and related steel beam floor framing. All exterior doors, windows, and brick veneer were replaced. New continuous air barrier cavity insulation and drainage systems were installed. Approximately 15,000 square feet of full thickness exterior wall was replaced. Remaining exterior CMU backup wall was braced or reinforced for resistance to wind pressures.

Upcycle

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Photos by Ronnie Bruce Photography

Becica Associates LLC (BA) assisted MRB Properties in their efforts to transform the Grant Building, constructed in the early 1900’s as a retail establishment, into a thriving exercise and yoga studio. Amenities include a yoga and barre studio, cycling room, lite eatery and juice bar, retail area, offices, toilet rooms, showers, and changing areas.

BA provided a structural condition assessment and Architectural and Engineering Services including design for structural alterations and interior fitout for the 4800 sq. ft. facility. The electrical system was replaced and new roof top heating, ventilation, and air conditioning units were provided.

The original brick party walls were left exposed and new luxury vinyl imitation wood flooring was installed. The windows were replaced and the original tin ceiling, plaster work, and wood mouldings were restored. Existing brick party wall openings have been infilled to provide retail display areas and storage for exercise equipment. Interior lighting fixtures and custom fabricated furniture tie into the exercise cycling theme.

George L. Catrambone Elementary School – Energy Star Certification

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glc-energy-star-certification

Achieved through sound design of efficient building systems; including water source heat pumps, heat recovery, water conserving fixtures, and daylighting controls; an enhanced building thermal envelope with continuous air barrier systems, solar shading, and high performance glazing; and the careful detailing of interfacing facade components combined with the Owner’s building operations and energy management planning has contributed to the George L. Catrambone Elementary School’s EPA’s ENERGY STAR Certification! A true testament of the school’s performance!

George L. Catrambone Ribbon Cutting Ceremony!

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Becica Associates LLC is proud to announce Governor Chris Christie’s celebratory opening and the successful completion of the George L. Catrambone Elementary School.  Becica Associates was responsible for the design of the new 109,000 square foot Elementary School in Long Branch, New Jersey.  Completion on time and under budget is indicative of the successful collaboration of all team members involved.   Check out the State of New Jersey, Office of the Governor’s website posting.

The cost effective design not only meets the District’s educational curriculum and provides high level building security but also incorporates many sustainable technologies and systems, just a few of which include high efficiency HVAC and plumbing systems, a high performance building envelope, daylighting controls and sustainable materials.

The academic wings were designed with exterior views in all learning spaces and were arranged to offer quiet zones for learning, buffered from the active assembly areas and music rooms.  Pre-K and K classrooms are located adjacent to the outdoor playground, complete with a safety surfacing system.  Interior and exterior performance areas, a courtyard classroom and flexible multi-use spaces all provide students with enhanced learning opportunities.

Charles L. Spragg Elementary School

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With the start of school on September 4th, the 22,800 square foot Classroom wing and All Purpose room received a completely new roof system and alterations to the HVAC system in less than three weeks! The next phase includes replacement of the HVAC system for 12 classrooms during school hours.

Union City High School Mural

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Final Image

Becica Associates designed and managed the installation of a permanent mural on the facade of the Union City High School. The mural was painted on rain screen metal wall panels.  Art work was designed by the Union City High School graphics art teacher, drawn by the art students, painted by a professional painter and installed by a contractor.  The abstract colorful mural is a further enhancement of the Union City Student Sanctuary.

NJSDA George L. Catrambone Elementary School

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George L. Catrambone Elementary School

Becica Associates designed one of the first elementary schools utilizing the New Jersey School Development Authority’s 21st Century School Design Manual including sustainable design features and Best Practices Standards mandated for creating safe and secure schools.  The new two-story building totaling 109,000 SF is located on approximately 9.7 acres. The school will house 784 students with a total of 41 classrooms plus many other amenities.

Rosa International Middle School

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Before
After

Cherry Hill Public Schools, Cherry Hill, NJ

Originally built in early 1960s and known at the time as New Jersey’s most inexpensively built school building, the original facade consisted of un-insulated glass in an aluminum store front system.  Over the years numerous renovation projects further depleted the facade’s ability to resist water and air penetration. BA studied various renovation options leading up to the recommendation to replace the aluminum store front with an externally insulated rain screen metal panel covered steel stud wall system replacing continuous fenestration with high performance punch windows.  The facade replacement project has greatly reduced building heating loss.

Student Sanctuary

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Union City Board of Education, Union City, NJ

The Student Sanctuary is a landscaped pedestrian plaza located at the main entrance to Union City High School.  The plaza is an extension of the existing school’s arched loggia and offers the students a place to congregate before, during and after school.  The design features landscaped and hardscaped areas a small amphitheater, benches, and decorative raised pergola.  A waterfall and fountain provide a relaxing oasis from the urban surroundings.  The decorative brick paved serpentine walkway, bluestone paved patios, and concrete ramps provide barrier free access to all landscaped elements including evergreen and deciduous trees, flowering shrubs and perennials, decorative all-season grasses and sculpted lawns.  A security system with cameras and emergency bluelight stations and audio system with speakers are connected to the schools security and IT departments.  The plaza provides an enriched student experience and a welcomed sense of place.

Volkswagen Distribution Center

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VWA capital repair project of 928,000 square foot distribution center for automobile parts to correct over 28,000 feet of concrete fractures/cracks in 130,000 square feet of precast-prestressed concrete wall panels.  Repairs were necessary to protect the durability and structural safety of the wall panels, the weather resistant integrity of the building envelope and restore the originally intended aesthetics of the façade.

Carusi and Rosa Middle School Libraries

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Becica Associates provided design and construction administration services that integrated new library space into existing facilities for the Cherry Hill Board of Education.  The Carusi library addition (photo on left) is 10,000 square feet and the Rosa library addition (photo on right) was 6,300 square feet.  Features included an open plan concept, reading room, computer room, office/work room, conference room, library data system, indirect lighting and air conditioning.

Mount Ephraim Fire Department

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Becica Associates provided Architectural Design services for the Mt. Ephraim Fire Department.  The design of a new one-story 11,355 SF fire station provides meeting and training facilities as well as kitchen, fitness room, showers, day room and administrative offices.  The new four bay apparatus garage will provide storage and maintenance space for the company’s vehicles and equipment.

Buckshutem Early Childhood Center

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Becica Associates provided design and construction administration services for the New Jersey Schools Construction Corporation for the Early Childhood Center as an Annex to the existing Buckshutem Elementary School. Alterations to the existing building and reconfiguration of the site were also part of the project.  The completed facility consists of 24 Pre-K classrooms and a K -5 Elementary School that accommodates 382 students.

Cherry Hill High School East – Brick Masonry Facade Replacement

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Brick Masonry Facade Replacement, Cherry Hill High School EastBecica Associates provided facade condition assessment, design and construction administration services for Cherry Hill Board of Education at High School East.  The repair option chosen was a complete facade replacement using reinforced brick masonry veneer.  Project included the reconstruction of the entire wall, including portions of the back-up wall, cavity drainage systems, and energy efficient window systems.

5000 Boardwalk Condominiums

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Becica Associates provided condition assessment, forensic engineering, design and construction administration for this 20-story residential condominium building in Ventnor, New Jersey, that houses 324 units built in 1970.  Pedestrian hazards created by falling concrete from balcony beam soffits prompted BA’s involvement. BA completed a number of investigations including load testing of balconies to determine the cause of the failures.  Design for balcony repairs included replacing edge beam concrete while maintaining existing balcony slabs, new balcony coatings, guard rails and sliding glass doors.

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Additional projects included pool deck repairs, a new front entry Porte Cochere, roof replacement, roof top cooling tower replacement and mechanical penthouse exterior wall over cladding.

Beowulf Enterprises – New Office Building

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Becica Associates provided design and construction administration services for this 32,000 square foot podium building consisting of two stories of office space over ground level parking located on a major thoroughfare in Cherry Hill, New Jersey.  Office floors contains the client headquarters and 16,000 square feet of leasable office space.  The site design carefully integrates the maximum building floor area allowed, required parking and landscape areas.

Governor Charles C. Stratton Elementary School

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Swps-Stratton_3Becica Associates provided design and construction administration services to the Swedesboro-Woolwich Board of Education for a new elementary school for grades 1 to 4.  The project features 31 classrooms, four special education classrooms, four small group instruction rooms, art classroom, music classroom, distance learning lab, instructional media center, main and central administrative offices, combined gymnasium and cafeteria, and a full-service kitchen.

Margaret C. Clifford School

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Swps-clifford-01Beccia Associates provided design and construction administration services for the Swedesboro-Woolwich Board of Education for a new 43,000 square foot elementary school to accommodate 330 students. Features include 17 classrooms, 2 small group instruction classrooms, instructional media center, stage, multi-purpose room for educational and community use, full service kitchen, administration and health offices, and teacher’s planning center.

Cumberland Regional School District

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CRSD PhotovaltaicBecica Associates provided pre-design, design, and construction administration services on this 194,900 square foot roof cover replacement and a new photovoltaic (PV) array.  BA implemented a two-phase approach for this project.  During phase one, a condition assessment of the existing roof and exterior rising walls was performed to determine the scope of work and roof replacement selection.  A fiberglass reinforced modified bitumen roofing system, with a puncture and fatigue-resistant membrane with high tensile strength, was selected to provide a durable and long lasting roofing surface.  During Phase 2, the photovoltaic solar panel system pictured here with the capacity of producing 200 kilowatts of output was installed on a steel-framed canopy over existing parking lot areas.

Bridgeton Board of Education – Jim Hursey Memorial Stadium

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BPS Stadium 201225-1The Bridgeton High School Athletic Complex Master Plan included replacement of the 1939 vintage stadium with a barrier-free compliant 1,300 seat grandstand and press-box, a synthetic all-purpose turf field, all-weather running track, long and high jump and pole vault events.  Other features include public toilet rooms, home and visiting team locker rooms, elevator access to upper cross walk and barrier-free seating, utility and support spaces.

Bridgeton High School Media Center

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Bridgeton BOE Media Center 2Becica Associates provided Architectural and Engineering Services for the design of a 6,500 square foot Instructional Media Center and elevator addition. Managed and funded by New Jersey Schools Development Authority, the building includes: Computer classroom, book stack areas, quiet reading spaces, constructed as a multi-use flexible, learning space created by a long clear span acoustically dampened structure.

Robins’ Nest Life Link Homes

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Robins’ Nest is a non-profit organization dedicated to helping those in need. Life Link Homes provides independent, residential space for young adults who have recently left the foster care system. Each unit is a studio space with full kitchen, full bath and living/sleeping areas. A one-story superintendents unit sits between two two-story residential areas. The building exterior is clad in stucco with a stone base. Doric style columns define entries and porches. Generous windows provide abundant day light. The exterior has been designed to promote residential flavor and community spirit and to provide a stepping stone for young people in transition.

Folsom Board of Education

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FolsomBecica Associates provided design services for a 22,000 square foot addition and renovations to the existing facilities.  The completed facility was expanded to include: New science, art and music classrooms, gymnasium/multi-purpose room, full service kitchen, locker rooms, toilet rooms, physical education office, and staff room and new front canopy entrance. Renovations included:  Roof replacement and complete facade renovation and HVAC replacements, new bus loop, barrier-free curb ramps and sidewalks, storm drainage and utility systems work.

Millville Early Childhood Center

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Becica Associates was engaged by New Jersey School Construction Corporation to evaluate the adaptive reuse and expansion of an existing office building into a 615 student Early Childhood Center for the Millville School District.  Alterations included reconfiguring 61,000 SF of space to accommodate 29 classrooms, parent and teacher meeting rooms, gross motor skills rooms, a full service kitchen, a wellness center, administrative and support areas.  New construction included a 23,000 SF addition containing 12 classrooms as well as a multi-use space.  Restoration included a complete facade replacement.

Cherry Hill High School West

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Becica Associates designed the new Cherry Hill High School West auditorium to accommodate a prominent performing arts program and to modernize the existing band and practice rooms. The 25,000 square foot fully air-conditioned facility although separate was integrated into the existing campus-like setting of the High School. House seating totals 1,005 in a side entry format. Stage area includes 3,300 square feet with a fully fly-loft space. A recessed orchestra pit seats 50 musicians. Back stage areas include set production, dressing rooms, storage and a vocal music classroom. State of the art production lighting and sound systems were also installed.

Tropicana Garage, Partial Collapse

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Tropicana Garage, Partial Collapse“After topping out a 32 story hotel, and while placing concrete for the eighth floor of a ten story parking garage, both of which were part of a 245 million dollar expansion project at Tropicana Casino and Resort in Atlantic City, New Jersey on October 30, 2003, a section of the parking garage collapsed as concrete was being placed.  Just three floors from completing the structure of this project, one span of the west most floors of the parking garage collapsed suddenly…”.

Ivan Becica, P.E., F.ASCE of Becica Associates LLC and David J. Fielding, Ph.D., P.E., were retained by those representing the casino’s owners to assist in understanding the cause of the collapse.

Robins’ Nest

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Robin's NestRobins’ Nest is a charity organization located in Glassboro, NJ whose mission is to insure the safety of children and enhance their well-being in a family setting.  Becica Associates LLC designed a new building to provide much needed space for an expanding counselor and administrative staff.  BA was selected as a “partner” to help improve the organization’s facilities.

Mitchell H. Cohen Federal Courthouse

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Federal GSA retained Becica Associates to program and design the Federal Courthouse annex connected to the existing Courthouse in Camden, NJ. The seven story, 180,000 SF building includes 12 courtrooms and attendant facilities to satisfy the courts’ requirements: Appellate Judges’ suites, Grand Jury room, District Clerk’s office, US Marshall’s Service administrative office, prisoner holding facility, law library, secure inside parking and an enclosed pedestrian bridge connecting the two facilities.