Chicago-based Bridge Development tapped Tippmann Innovation (TI), Fort Wayne, Ind., to build an advanced, state-of-the-art, convertible refrigerated/freezer building near Seattle's Sea-Tac Airport.

TI broke ground on the 241,140-square-foot building on Aug. 31, The facility, located at 1010 South 146 St. in Burien, Wash., will be operated by Western Distribution Services (WDS), Renton, Wash.

"We were able to leverage Tippmann Innovation's distinctive knowledge base in developing this building. They helped us with all the design details optimized for the scale of what we wanted. Their experience with cold storage is well beyond that of a regular contractor. They are a high-touch company that facilitates every aspect of a project," says Steve Poulos, president of Bridge Development.

The 14-acre site accommodates the scale of the facility, one that is fully convertible and can be utilized as a freezer or cooler. The building will be able to manage a range of temperatures, from 40°F to -10°F, accommodating everything from meat and produce to frozen foods.

"We're honored to have the opportunity to help companies like Bridge Development and Western Distribution Services meet their unique challenges. Every project is different; there is no standard playbook or template that can be used to develop cold storage buildings. We like to feel that each project builds on the last, and helps us push the envelope of what's possible just a little bit further," says Rob Adams, principal, TI.

"Tippmann was a great choice for a high-profile, precedent-setting project like this. The building will become an anchor for Burien and the greater Seattle market, and marks a big step in growing the food business and jobs in this part of Washington," says John Naylor, president of Western Distribution.