This facility had a dysfunctional loading dock that was unsafe and did not meet their needs. KFDE was asked redesign the loading dock and add vehicle charging stations. The new area was to be multi-functional for use as an occasional loading dock, and a parking and charging station for electric carts.
Our field evaluation confirmed the physical space for access, turnaround and parking at the loading dock needed to be widened. There were also problems with the alignment of the existing space. The loading area was not in line with the service door leading into the building and there was no immediate access to and from the dock. To correct these conditions and provide our client with the multi-functional area they requested, we modified the landscaping and designed a retaining wall to create space for new stairs to allow easy access to and from the loading dock. We also realigned the openings and provided a new removable rail system which also provided fall protection. To maximize the use of this area, we provided several vehicle charging stations for department vehicles.
By reconfiguring the space, the client was able to efficiently use the loading dock to its maximum potential.