Sands Decker CPS, LLC

Scope Of Work

Mad River Mountain is Ohio’s largest winter resort, located only an hour’s drive from Columbus and Dayton, OH. Not only does Mad River Mountain claim the title of being the largest ski resort in Ohio, it also lays claim to the having the largest snowmaking system in the state. According to the resort, the snowmaking system can cover the entire facility with fresh snow in as little as 72-hours.

Following a catastrophic fire on September 16, 2015 that rendered Mad River Mountain’s original main venue 'The Loft' a total loss, Thomas & Marker Construction was picked to lead a $6.5-million design-build reconstruction project. Under this reconstruction project, Sands Decker CPS was contracted to provide general site engineering and, additionally, engineering design of a unique new fire suppression system for the new base lodge.

The new 46,000 square foot lodge is nearly double the size of the original building and features two levels with many amenities. The lower level features: a cafe, retail shop, lockers, and seating for 800 - more than double the original dining capacity of the old structure. The upper level includes the Loft Bar & Pizzeria, live entertainment, seating for over 300 patrons, and a deck to view the slopes from.

The fire suppression system for the new lodge required some innovative designed by Sands Decker CPS. Typically, when a public water supply is not available for Fire Suppression for a large building, the owner needs to invest significant capital into the system for Fire pumps, water storage, and a backup power generator. In Mad River Mountains case, Sands Decker CPS took advantage of the terrain to design a below-ground 33,000-gallon storage tank located near the top of the ski slope. The system allows gravity to supply 85 psi to the Lodge's fire suppression system without the need for costly fire pumps or a generator.