KCI developed construction documents for the repair of the landmark fountain and portions of the brick plaza near Lake Kittamaqundi in Columbia, Maryland.
The work involved replacing all mechanical and electrical equipment, as well as structural improvements. With very limited funding, engineers created a BIM model of the fountain using hand-drawn construction documents dating back to 1967 combined with field measurements. The BIM model proved critical during lighting design in order to provide the client with multiple options including an RGB system that could be programmed with different color schemes.
In the end, the Columbia Association wanted to ensure that the fountain reflected the original design with some enhancements. Engineers conducted extensive research to identify companies that could produce the custom nozzles required to recreate the existing flow patterns. White lighting was chosen, and additional fixtures were added to the upper bowl. Upgrades included a chemical injection system to eliminate the need to add chlorine tablets to the water. Repairs were successfully completed prior to the city’s planned 50th anniversary celebrations.
