Originally built as part of the Old Hillcrest Medical Center, the Waco Police Tower was converted into a municipal headquarters but required a serious exterior upgrade to bring it up to modern standards in both performance and appearance. IWR presented a detailed plan that addressed site logistics and temporary protection during installation to the City of Waco, Texas. This led to winning the project – a full reskinning of the 10-story structure in support of police operations.

The project involved the removal and replacement of approximately 41,000 square feet of outdated glass windows with one-inch insulated glazing. A substantial upgrade improving energy efficiency and comfort for occupants, the new façade transformed one of Waco’s most recognizable buildings with a clean, modern look.

Construction spanned 15 months, from September 2022 to late 2023, with IWR deploying a blended crew of experienced St. Louis-based and local union glaziers. Unlike many of its projects, IWR worked directly with the City of Waco – an arrangement that encouraged close collaboration, direct communication and agile decision-making without delays. IWR’s responsiveness was especially critical when field conditions evolved, requiring quick fabrication and delivery of materials needed to execute new and developing details. IWR’s partner Accura Systems, the Texas-based fabricator supplying the custom carrier system, enabled the fast turnaround required to successfully implement these field solutions in a timely manner.

Executing the reskinning on a multi-floor active police headquarters required careful planning to maintain safety, access, and uninterrupted 24/7 operations. While some delays and unforeseen conditions emerged once the old façade was removed, IWR quickly realigned expectations and sequencing within the first 30 days.

“Façade renovation is gaining momentum nationwide as building owners look to modernize aging structures, and reskinning provides a cost-efficient alternative to full construction,” David Hanson, IWR Senior Project Manager, said. “Renovation projects can be intimidating to building owners, especially when best-laid plans can get upended. The IWR team is not afraid to take on this kind of work. We go in with a solid strategy, adapt when conditions shift and consistently deliver strong results.”

The Waco Police Tower reskinning, contributing to an estimated $56,000 in annual energy savings while enhancing year-round comfort for staff and visitors, delivers a lasting community impact. Additionally, with 100% of the original glass materials recycled through Texas-based manufacturing, the project was committed to sustainability alongside performance. For IWR, the Waco Police Tower reflects its strength in occupied-site work and extending a building’s life through the reskinning process.