25-024 | Empowering the Future of Logistics: The Role of Phase 1 Construction in EV Charging Infrastructure

Atlanta, GA | Mar 2025 - Jun 2025

The shift toward electric vehicles (EVs) is transforming logistics and warehouse operations worldwide. To support this change, facilities must prepare their infrastructure to handle the unique demands of EV charging and fleet management. Phase 1 Construction focused on delivering the interior infrastructure required to support future EV charging deployment and fleet operations within a large industrial warehouse. This phase translated the previously completed design work into physical systems—establishing electrical capacity, safety protections, ventilation, and layout readiness necessary for scalable EV charging and garage functionality.

Building Electrical Infrastructure for EV Charging and Fleet Operations

A major component of Phase 1 Construction was the installation of new electrical systems to accommodate both high-capacity and standard charging equipment. The scope included infrastructure to support four (4) large EV charging stations and four (4) smaller EV charging stations, along with dedicated electrical systems for owner-provided garage equipment.

Electrical work was coordinated to support future expansion, proper load distribution, and safe integration with the facility’s overall power systems. Raceway routing, equipment locations, and service coordination were executed to align with long-term operational demands typical of fleet and warehouse environments.

Interior Modifications to Support Operational Readiness

To support vehicle circulation and future logistics needs, new Dockzilla ramps were installed at two dock entries to allow flexible entry and exit configurations. The project also included the installation of two new garage doors, improving access, airflow, and operational efficiency within the warehouse.

Preparing Floors for Future Layout and Safety Markings

Interior floor surfaces were mechanically ground to remove existing striping, eliminating outdated markings and preparing the slab for a new operational layout. Additional grinding and layout work established reference points for future floor painting and striping, ensuring the next construction phase could proceed efficiently without rework.

This approach allowed the facility to remain adaptable while maintaining a clean, construction-ready surface.

Impact Protection and Safety Enhancements

Given the volume of equipment and vehicle movement anticipated in future phases, extensive impact protection systems were installed. Phase 1 Construction included:

• Eighty-eight (88) interior concrete-filled bollards for permanent equipment protection

• Twenty-four (24) interior bolt-down bollards for flexible, targeted protection

These installations enhanced safety for personnel, protected electrical and charging infrastructure, and reduced long-term risk associated with vehicle operations inside the facility.

Ventilation, Exhaust, and Life-Safety Coordination

New exhaust and smoke-removal systems were installed to support garage operations and improve indoor air quality. These systems were coordinated with the building’s existing conditions and future charging use scenarios.

Only minimal modifications were required to the existing fire alarm and fire protection sprinkler systems, ensuring compatibility with new installations while maintaining code compliance. No plumbing scope was included during this phase.

Phase 1 Construction Outcomes

Phase 1 Construction successfully delivered the foundational infrastructure required for advanced EV charging and fleet operations by:

• Establishing electrical capacity for EV charging stations

• Preparing interior layouts for future striping and traffic flow

• Installing safety systems to protect personnel and equipment

• Improving ventilation and operational readiness

• Positioning the facility for seamless progression into future construction phases

This phase demonstrates how early construction packages play a critical role in successful design-build EV charging projects, ensuring facilities are safe, flexible, and ready for scalable electrification.

Why Phase 1 Construction Matters for Logistics Facilities

Phase 1 Construction is more than just installing wires and doors. It sets the foundation for a facility that can:

• Support a growing EV fleet with reliable, scalable charging infrastructure

• Maintain safe and efficient power distribution aligned with warehouse operations

• Adapt to changing logistics needs with flexible vehicle access and circulation

• Provide clear operational guidance through well-prepared floor layouts

  
  

By investing in this initial build-out, warehouse operators avoid costly delays and disruptions later. The facility becomes ready to integrate EV technology smoothly, supporting sustainability goals and operational efficiency.

Practical Example: Preparing for a Fleet of Electric Delivery Vans

Imagine a logistics company transitioning to a fleet of electric delivery vans. Without proper infrastructure, charging these vehicles could cause power overloads or operational delays. Phase 1 Construction addresses these challenges by:

• Installing electrical systems that handle multiple fast chargers simultaneously

• Designing layouts that allow vans to enter, charge, and exit without blocking other operations

• Preparing floors with clear markings to direct vehicle movement safely

  
  

This preparation means the company can deploy its EV fleet confidently, knowing the facility supports efficient charging and smooth daily operations.

Looking Ahead: The Next Steps After Phase 1

Once the interior infrastructure is in place, the facility is ready for the next construction phases, which typically include:

• Installing EV charging stations and garage equipment

• Applying floor striping and safety markings

• Integrating ventilation and safety systems tailored to EV operations

  
  

Each step builds on the solid foundation created during Phase 1, ensuring the facility evolves in a coordinated, efficient manner.

Phase 1 Construction is a crucial step in transforming warehouses into EV-ready logistics hubs. By focusing on electrical capacity, operational modifications, and floor preparation, this phase ensures facilities can support future EV fleets safely and efficiently. For warehouse operators and fleet managers, investing in this groundwork means smoother transitions to electric vehicles and stronger support for sustainable logistics.