Central Rural Electric Cooperative
Stillwater, Oklahoma
Central Rural Electric Cooperative needed more than square footage. They needed a resilient operations hub that protects dispatch, supports growth, and reflects long-term stewardship to members. The new 44,128-square-foot facility delivers capacity, durability, and performance in a single integrated campus.
Project Overview
The new two-story administration and support operations building replaces a constrained legacy facility and positions the cooperative for expansion. A steel frame structure with masonry veneer, EIFS, and cast stone establishes permanence, while insulated wall assemblies and high-performance glazing improve envelope performance. Light-gauge metal trusses support a standing seam metal roof system designed for longevity and weather resistance. The building is fully sprinklered and engineered to meet the daily operational demands required to deliver reliable electrical distribution to customers across the service territory.
Operational Performance and Resilience
Reliability drives every decision. The facility includes a storm-hardened dispatch area to maintain continuity during severe weather events. Full generator backup ensures uninterrupted operations during power outages. Secured access with card readers protects staff and infrastructure. Electrical, data, and communications systems were designed and coordinated to support modern utility operations, including state-of-the-art audiovisual systems for training and board functions.
A geothermal mechanical system reduces long-term energy costs and stabilizes performance across seasons. Spray foam and rigid insulation increase R-value and air tightness, reinforcing operational efficiency. The project achieved LEED Gold certification, validating measurable performance outcomes rather than aspirational claims.
Campus and Community
The site extends the building’s performance strategy. A central park featuring native landscaping creates a cohesive campus environment while reducing irrigation demand. A pond captures rainwater for landscape irrigation, lowering potable water use and reinforcing environmental responsibility. A covered outdoor terrace overlooks the park, providing informal gathering space for staff and visitors.
A standalone drive-through payment kiosk offers secure, convenient member access without disrupting daily operations.
Planning and Growth
Space planning anticipates expansion. The building’s symmetrical design, organized along a 142-degree central axis, establishes visual order while allowing future growth to integrate seamlessly. A 56-foot entry tower anchors the campus and reinforces civic presence.
Construction administration services ensured design intent translated into built performance, maintaining quality control from documentation through occupancy.
Project Facts
- 44,128 square feet
- LEED Gold certified
- Storm-hardened dispatch area
- Full generator backup
- Geothermal mechanical system
- Rainwater harvesting pond for irrigation
- Secured access with card readers
- 56-foot entry tower
- Symmetrical design on 142-degree central axis
This facility strengthens operational reliability, protects critical infrastructure, and demonstrates responsible stewardship to cooperative members. It is built for today’s demands and tomorrow’s growth.