Field Investigation for VDOT

I came across a pre-World War I structure as I was doing field investigation for a roof replacement project at the VDOT District Shop in Suffolk, VA. I learned what there is to know about the structure speaking with Gary Pope, Equipment Service Repair Manager, who is one of the resident experts on the facility.

The wood structure is only part of the original structure that was disassembled and reconstructed. Another part of the structure is believed to be in Salem, Virginia. The structure clear spans over 100’ and is 250’ in length. The structural members are original and have only been added to or replaced, as necessary. Some trusses have been strengthened over time with steel rods, bolts and plates to accommodate the weight of modern equipment such as lighting, conduit and service equipment. The barrel had large skylights removed in 1985 and filled in with members to match existing and is painted white from time to time to brighten the work area.

Bobby Sharon