A Cost-Value Analysis Makes the Case for STARC’s RealWall at PHX
Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX) has become a showcase for the innovative use of STARC’s RealWall™, thanks to Lynsey Jones, Project Senior Manager at McCarthy Building Companies, Inc. With nearly a decade of experience managing projects at PHX, Jones recognized the need for a better approach to temporary construction walls to limit operational impacts during renovations.
Challenge: Moving Beyond Framed Drywall
The airport traditionally relied on framed drywall, a standard yet cumbersome solution. When faced with a major enabling project for a new concourse, Jones and her team sought a more efficient alternative. After thorough evaluation, STARC’s RealWall system emerged as the optimal choice—a modular, durable wall system designed to reduce noise, enhance safety, and meet strict regulatory standards.
PHX welcomed the idea of an innovative solution but required a detailed cost-value analysis to ensure it could meet the airport’s stringent requirements and budget constraints. McCarthy’s compelling analysis demonstrated how RealWall could surpass the performance of drywall while aligning with financial expectations, tipping the decision in favor of the modular system.
Solution: A System With Broad Benefits
The Terminal 4 Eighth Concourse (T4S1) project involved complex construction elements, from a new concourse to bridges and security checkpoints. RealWall’s reusability and flexibility were transformative, enabling rapid phasing and last-minute adjustments. Its success prompted PHX to purchase the system for ongoing enhancement projects, demonstrating its long-term value and operational cost savings.
Temporary Wall Systems: Operational Benefits + Easy Installation
RealWall’s standout features include quick installation and the ability to maintain uninterrupted airport operations. Graphics were applied overnight, enhancing passenger experience without delays.
The system also addressed security concerns, with custom lock sets added to doors and flexible configurations to meet safety requirements. This adaptability made RealWall a perfect fit for the high-stakes environment of an international airport.
Looking Ahead: RealWall’s Expanding Role at PHX
McCarthy plans to incorporate RealWall in future projects, including a newly awarded concourse project at Terminal 3. The system’s reliability and versatility make it a preferred choice for complex aviation environments. Additionally, STARC’s commitment to customer feedback ensures the system evolves to meet industry demands.
The RealWall system isn’t just a temporary solution; it’s a long-term strategy.
– Lynsey Jones, Project Senior Manager, McCarthy Building Companies, Inc.
Conclusion: A Future-Focused Strategy
Jones put it best: “The RealWall system isn’t just a temporary solution; it’s a long-term strategy.” Its success at PHX sets a new benchmark for renovation efficiency, making it an essential tool for future projects.
If you’re planning a high-traffic airport renovation or another demanding project, STARC Systems’ temporary reusable construction walls offer a proven solution. Contact us today to discover how RealWall can elevate your containment strategy.
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