Ford Global Technology & Business Center
Naucalpan, Mexico
Best Project
Sent by: Walbridge of Mexico
Owner: Ford Motor Co.
Leading design company | Structural Engineer: Gala Design Studio
General contractor: Walbridge of Mexico
Designed with a sustainable, holistic and inclusive approach, this project, which includes the headquarters of Ford’s corporate office and the largest automotive engineering center in Mexico, spans 19 hectares of land, much of which is a protected ecological zone. Starting work on a site without roads, electricity and even potable water, the first challenge was the earthmoving and stabilization phase to reinforce the existing ground. This work included the construction of the largest gabion wall in Latin America to prevent gully erosion.
“The first stage of earthmoving was fundamental and an important activity on our critical path for the project,” says Raúl González, chief operating officer of Walbridge de México. “The most important thing was to combine the gabion wall with cement floor at a height of up to 40 meters and retain large volumes of soil to achieve elevated platforms for the buildings.”
The team implemented a zero waste/zero discharge program, an unusual practice in the area, with the waste generated recycled or composted, and all wastewater treated and reused, thus avoiding discharge to the municipal sewer. Contractors used a stormwater drainage system to minimize runoff into gullies while maintaining natural flow at the local dam. The project also includes the protection and reforestation of 4.2 hectares of natural green area.
Thanking Ford for its commitment to the project that brings a positive impact to the local environment, González said: “The human element involved in the development of this type of project was, without a doubt, key to achieving the goals . My overall feeling is joy and pride in seeing this project come to fruition.”
