New York

Vireo Medical Cannabis Facility 

At a cost of over 74 Million Dollars Vireo is one of the largest and most advanced cutting edge cultivation hubs employing advanced technology to produce high-quality recreational cannabis in compliance with industry standards and regulations

Sprawling across 22 acres, Vireo’s technologically advanced cannabis cultivation facility harmonizes nature and technology, fostering premium-grade cannabis while pioneering sustainable, large-scale production techniques for therapeutic relief.

Optimal Growth Environment 

Vireo Health, one of New York State’s leading MSOs, scoped out their neighboring 97 acres for their new indoor cannabis growing and processing facility with more than 320,000 sq.ft. in preparation for the new recreational cannabis legislature proposed to come out in 2022. The site, formerly the Tryon Juvenile Detention Center in Johnstown, NY, was owned by the Fulton County Industrial Development Authority. 

CORDOS won the project in April 2021 through a competitive process against other contractors. The fast-track schedule aimed to complete the facility by April 1, 2022, aligning with Vireo Health's goal of being open for business. The project involved extensive demolition of existing buildings, asbestos abatement, and significant earthwork to accommodate the expanded facility.

The Vireo Health Cannabis Facility began with a detailed design process, incorporating innovative elements such as insulated precast panels. A significant turn of events occurred when Verano, the parent company, sold its enterprise to MSO Cannabis company Verano. This change in ownership led to a redesign of the central plant, adding another layer of complexity to the construction timeline.

Utilizing the design-build process, CORDOS’ team was able to implement design changes promptly to respond to ongoing site challenges and supply chain issues that would have otherwise affected cost and schedule. CORDOS’ management team worked closely with the engineering team, local trades, local utilities, and equipment suppliers to ensure a timely and cost-effective construction process in the face of nationwide equipment delays, material shortages, and a site with inadequate power delivery.

State-of-the-art Cultivation Hub

The Vireo Health Cannabis Facility’s design and construction project marked by a series of challenges, strategic shifts, and adaptive measures. Initially estimated at $60 million, the project's scope and financial landscape evolved, reaching $75 million due to a myriad of factors such as redesigns, delays, and unanticipated hurdles. The facility, situated in the capital region of New York, aimed to embody cutting-edge solutions and environmental sustainability. A notable feature of the project was the integration of innovative designs, particularly the inclusion of a central hydronic plant. This forward-thinking approach aimed to enhance operational efficiency and underscored a commitment to sustainable practices within the cannabis industry.

As of the current status, the project remains actively in progress, with a renewed focus on completing construction by the first quarter of 2024. The commitment to delivering a state-of-the-art facility that aligns with the original vision remains unwavering, showcasing the dedication and perseverance of the entire project team.

The journey, though challenging, stands as a testament to the team's ability to overcome obstacles in the pursuit of creating a remarkable and industry-leading cannabis facility. The project's intricate details underscore the complexities inherent in large-scale construction projects and highlight the importance of adaptability, collaboration, and unwavering commitment to the end goal.

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