Department of General Services (DGS)
State Correction Institution (SCI) Smithfield
Rios Williams Architects (RWA) served as Architect and consultant for the design and documentation of a new switchgear building at SCI Smithfield. The facility was developed to house an upgraded campus switchgear unit and generator system following the unexpected, simultaneous failure of several key components within the medium-voltage and emergency generator distribution systems.

Department of General Services (DGS)
State Correction Institution (SCI) Pine Grove
Rios Williams Architects (RWA) served as Architect and consultant for the Control Room Addition and the facility-wide replacement of exterior security doors at SCI Pine Grove. RWA responsibilities spanned all phases of the project—from a comprehensive life safety code analysis of every campus building to the architectural visioning, design development, and detailed documentation for the new control room addition.

The project incorporates advanced security and operational requirements to support the facility’s mission. RWA also developed specifications for new exterior security doors and hardware to enhance safety, durability, and overall functionality across the campus.

Department of General Services (DGS)
State Correctional Institution (SCI) Forest
Rios Williams Architects (RWA) served as Architect and consultant to deliver a facility-wide modernization of the Building Management System (BMS) and lighting controls at SCI Forest. The work included comprehensive replacement and upgrades to the existing Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs), the Microlite system, and the Building Automation System (BAS) infrastructure. The project’s primary goal was to implement advanced, energy-efficient, and highly reliable technologies while preserving all required legacy functions. The upgraded systems enhance redundancy, improve performance, and integrate seamlessly with existing facility operations, supporting long-term reliability and sustainability. RWA provided architectural support in collaboration with the lead engineering team to ensure all design requirements were met and to facilitate coordinated project delivery.

Ebensburg State Center Intermediate Care Facility
Rios Williams Architects (RWA) performed a thorough life safety code analysis across the entire campus, developed and documented targeted renovations and upgrade strategies for multiple facilities, and supported the project through full construction administration.

The project encompassed a comprehensive upgrade of the fire alarm system across all campus facilities, the design and construction of a new building dedicated to housing the new switchgear, and the renovation of two office buildings to house the Department of General services and administration offices.

Homewood Senior Community Center (HAL) Renovations and Addition
Rios Williams Architects (RWA) delivered comprehensive architectural design services to update and optimize the Homewood Senior Center, improving both functionality and user comfort. The project involved three key phases:

Parking Lot Renovations – The City of Pittsburgh Department of Public Works (DPW) engaged RWA to provide design solutions for a new onsite parking lot located behind the Homewood Senior Center. The redesigned lot features ADA-accessible parking spaces and sidewalks, significantly enhancing accessibility to the facility.

Interior Renovation – RWA was selected by the City of Pittsburgh DPW to upgrade the interior of the Homewood Senior Center. Enhancements encompassed all interior finishes, custom reception desk casework, installation of new LED lighting throughout the facility, as well as integration of a hearing loop system and an emergency pull cord system to support the needs of elderly clients.

ADA Accessibility Entry Addition – The City of Pittsburgh DPW commissioned RWA to conduct a feasibility study for improved ADA accessibility, addressing entry access from street level to the main floor and between the building's existing levels. Based on this study, RWA designed a new facility addition that includes a front entry, security check-in area, and enhanced circulation within the building.

Pittsburgh City-County Building Public Restroom Renovations
The City of Pittsburgh’s Department of Public Works contracted Rios Williams Architects to renovate 22 outdated restrooms in the historic City-County Building, requiring full upgrades to finishes, plumbing, electrical systems, HVAC, and ventilation. The new designs brought all restrooms up to code, added ADA and gender-inclusive features, and incorporated materials that respect the building’s historic character.

Housing Authority of the City of Pittsburgh-Northview Heights
Rios Williams Architects (RWA) performed a thorough life safety code analysis across the entire complex, developed and documented targeted renovations and upgrades to gain a certificate of occupancy for a 50+ year old housing complex. RWA also replaced the existing deteriorated exterior stair doors and windows and infilled openings with fire-rated infill to achieve code compliance.