Located on a former golf course in Philadelphia, PA, Commercial Development Corporation and Blue Rock Construction envisioned a purpose-built, one-million-square-foot last-mile package delivery facility to support UPS’s growing distribution network.
Challenge
The challenge was to create a highly automated logistics facility capable of supporting complex package handling operations while maintaining flexibility for future growth. Given the client, the design needed to accommodate a large workforce, extensive loading infrastructure, and evolving sustainability requirements.
Solution
The facility was designed around UPS’s operational needs, featuring a 36-foot clear interior height, clerestory windows for natural light, and infrastructure supporting automated sorting systems, control rooms, and truck maintenance functions. The building incorporates 245 interior and exterior loading positions, five office clusters, employee amenities, and dedicated structures for employee access and retail functions.
Outcome
The completed facility strengthens UPS’s ability to serve customers across the Philadelphia region and beyond, supporting a growing distribution network and rising demand for same-day delivery. Purposeful sustainability measures include infrastructure for natural gas delivery vehicles, future electrification, and roof systems designed to accommodate solar panels as operational needs evolve.
Designed to support approximately 1,000 employees, the facility includes locker rooms, break rooms, training spaces, and five office clusters integrated throughout the building.
NORR was selected by Commercial Development Corporation and Blue Rock Construction for the design and documentation of a purpose-built one-million-square-foot last mile package delivery facility in Philadelphia, PA. This strategic location will enable UPS to expand its reach to multiple cities in the Northeast, a significant value based on the increasing demand for same-day delivery service. Set on a former golf course on one of the largest available industrial sites in the city, the highly automated and state-of-the-art facility will support an expanding distribution network closer to their customers.
Designed to efficiently work with the operational and sustainability requirements of UPS, the precast concrete structure will have a 36-foot clear interior height featuring clear story windows for maximum natural light. The design supports all elements of complex operations including a conveyor system, automated control room and an enclosed auto shop for truck maintenance. The facility will be equipped with 245 interior and exterior loading positions, including drive-in docks, fully equipped doors and dock equipment to enable the increased efficiency of package delivery to customers in the Philadelphia region and beyond.
Office space is integral in the design with five separate clusters within the facility. Amenity spaces feature locker rooms, break rooms and training rooms for the 1,000 UPS employees. Two “out” concrete buildings will achieve program requirements for an employee entrance and retail outlet.
Sustainability components were purposeful in the holistic design. The structure will accommodate servicing natural gas delivery vehicles, with a move to electric in the future to reduce pollution. As well, the structure will be constructed to accommodate solar panels on the roof.
