JE Dunn was the design-builder for a new vehicle processing center for Southeast Toyota, the world’s largest independent distributor of Toyota vehicles. When vehicles arrive via train, they are stored on site at the vehicle processing center.
The center includes 12 buildings across the 300-acre site, allowing for repairs, accessory installation, fueling, and more. Amenities for workers include a wellness center, nature trail, fitness center, meeting areas, and a cafe. The new facility replaces an existing facility nearby, and JE Dunn was instrumental in the transition process. JE Dunn was brought onboard early as the design-builder leading the team through the conceptual design phase to finish.
JE Dunn Construction transformed a massive 300-acre site into a state-of-the-art new facility for processing and distributing Toyota vehicles across the southeast. JE Dunn worked as a collaborative partner from the project’s earliest stages to understand the client’s purpose and guarantee success. The team proactively managed site utility installations on the client’s behalf and installed off-site utilities for the city to ensure a smooth process.
The site’s 12 buildings total over 350,000 square feet, including a 265,000-square-foot accessories installation facility. Other structures include a new office building with full commercial kitchen and cafe, a body shop, warehouse and an automotive hauler truck maintenance shop. JE Dunn overcame multiple challenges, including the laying of nearly 12 miles of underground pipe and extensive coordination associated with the construction of 2.25 miles of rail line, to deliver this project on time and within budget.
Unlike typical “pad ready” sites, this project began on undeveloped land. Southeast Toyota Distributors chose the design-build method to navigate the complexities of such a large-scale project. They partnered with JE Dunn and NELSON Worldwide to bring utilities to the site, manage installations, and ensure seamless coordination with multiple service providers.
JE Dunn managed electrical, natural gas, and fiber Internet installations, ensuring optimal value for the client. The facility includes a rail spur with four loading pads, requiring extensive coordination with Norfolk Southern. JE Dunn installed off-site utilities and designed a fire suppression system, including a 250,000-gallon water tank. Coordination with state and county departments for roadway alterations and bond procurement was also essential.
The rocky terrain required significant blasting and site adjustments, with 168 acres disturbed. JE Dunn addressed scope gaps and procured necessary equipment, including car washes. Despite challenges, JE Dunn delivered the Vehicle Processing Center to a highly satisfied client.
“The JE Dunn team has operated as a valuable partner to our business, leading and guiding our team through every step of the design and construction process. They have demonstrated fantastic team collaboration with our team by going above and beyond to provide design options, sponsor site visits, and facilitate brainstorming sessions with stakeholders.”