Project Profile

Project Overview

The Portland International Airport (PDX) Parking Garage and Consolidated Rental facility represents a groundbreaking infrastructure development as part of PDX's multi-hundred million dollar improvement initiative. This five-story parking structure marks a significant departure from traditional construction methods, being one of the first large-scale parking facilities of its kind to utilize steel construction rather than conventional precast concrete systems.

Project Innovation and Challenges

The project addressed critical parking capacity needs at one of the Pacific Northwest's busiest transportation hubs. Steel construction was strategically selected for its 40% faster erection time compared to precast concrete, enhanced seismic performance characteristics, and operational flexibility enabling construction during active airport operations with minimal passenger service disruption.

Construction spanned multiple years under challenging Pacific Northwest conditions including over 150 days of annual precipitation, temperature ranges from freezing to 90°F, and high humidity levels. The project team implemented innovative weather protection strategies including temporary enclosures, heated application zones, and moisture monitoring systems. Wind exposure and proximity to active aircraft operations required specialized safety protocols and strict material handling procedures.

Steel Structure Benefits

The five-story steel frame incorporated advanced engineering solutions featuring long-span beams for parking efficiency, composite steel deck construction, and seismic-resistant moment frame design. This approach provided enhanced flexibility for future modifications, superior durability in freeze-thaw cycles, and improved vehicle circulation patterns while reducing long-term maintenance requirements.

Coating Specification Development

The protective coating specification was developed by Dan Janulek, coating consultant with TNW Inc., the Northwest representative for Tnemec coatings. TNW's expertise in Pacific Northwest marine climates, where ocean salt, extended cold and rainy weather, and high humidity present significant challenges, made them well-suited for this critical airport infrastructure.

The specification required a multi-system approach addressing varying exposure zones throughout the structure - from protected upper deck areas to fully exposed perimeter steel subject to wind-driven rain and direct UV exposure. Coating systems needed to deliver at least 20 years of reliable performance with minimal maintenance while withstanding vehicle emissions and de-icing chemicals.

Coating Application Contractor

Long Painting Company, established in 1967 and based in Kent, Washington, served as the coating application contractor. With a distinguished portfolio including the Golden Gate Bridge and Seattle Space Needle, Long Painting brought extensive experience to this challenging project. As one of the Pacific Northwest's largest coating contractors and a union signatory operation, they provided the expertise necessary for coordinating coating application with ongoing construction while maintaining airport operational compliance.

Comprehensive Coating System Implementation

The protective coating program represented one of the largest single coating applications in the Pacific Northwest, requiring over 10,000 gallons of zinc-rich primer systems and 25,000 gallons of Series 115 Uni-Bond coating applied across multiple seasons.

Coating System Design (Section 099600): The specification incorporated three distinct high-performance coating systems:

Primer Systems:

• Standard Exterior: Series 90-97 Tneme-Zinc shop primer for galvanic corrosion protection
• Below-Grade Soil Contact: Series 66 Hi-Build Epoxoline primer with 4-inch extension for enhanced chemical resistance
• Field Touch-up: Series 394 PerimePrime for repairs and corrections

Topcoat Systems:

• System A: Series 750 UVX for enhanced UV resistance and color retention
• System B: Two-coat system with Series 115 Uni-Bond DF base and Series 1095 Endura-Shield finish for maximum durability in high-exposure areas
• System C: Single coat Series 115 Uni-Bond DF for standard protection in sheltered areas

This three-system approach optimized both performance and cost-effectiveness, providing maximum protection where needed while using economical solutions in sheltered areas.

Long-term Performance

The maintenance program includes scheduled inspections, annual coating assessments, preventive maintenance procedures, and performance tracking through digital asset management systems. Baseline documentation enables continuous evaluation of Tnemec coating system performance against specifications.

Project Significance

This PDX parking facility demonstrates successful integration of innovative construction methodologies with proven Tnemec coating technologies under challenging environmental conditions. Expert specification and technical support ensured the steel structure approach accelerated timelines while providing comprehensive corrosion protection systems for decades of reliable service.

The project serves as a model for future airport infrastructure developments, showcasing how strategic material selection, advanced coating systems, and experienced technical specification deliver enhanced performance while meeting aggressive schedules in active operational environments. Key achievements include zero coating failures during construction, completion ahead of schedule, achievement of all performance specifications, and establishment of new industry standards for large-scale coating applications in marine climates.

This comprehensive coating program ensures long-term asset protection and minimal maintenance requirements, critical for airport infrastructure maintaining continuous operational availability while withstanding aircraft exhaust, de-icing chemicals, and Pacific Northwest marine conditions.