A Glimpse into AFG’s Impact at the Historic Tuttle Federal Building in Atlanta

March 20, 2024 | W. Dean Rowell Philip Brown

In the heart of Atlanta, Georgia, stands the iconic Elbert P. Tuttle U.S. Courthouse & Federal Building, a symbol of federal presence and governance. Over the years, AFG has been at the forefront of various renovations and improvements to the historic Federal Building through a 5-year BPA Program Management and Construction Management contract with the U.S. General Services Administration, Region 4.

Constructed in 1910, the Tuttle Federal Building has served as a hub for federal agencies and activities in Atlanta for decades. Named after Elbert Parr Tuttle, a prominent figure in Georgia’s legal and civil-rights history, the building stands as a testament to the city’s growth and development. Its distinctive Renaissance Revival architectural style and strategic downtown location make it a focal point in Atlanta.

The GSA Region 4 AFG Professional Services Team, based in Atlanta, has effectively overseen numerous projects within the Elbert P. Tuttle Federal Building. AFG’s commitment to excellence and expertise in project management have been instrumental in preserving the building’s historic integrity while incorporating modern functionalities.

One notable project occurred in 2021 when AFG’s W. Dean Rowell, Vice President and Project Director, and Leroy Coursault, Sr. Project Manager, collaborated with ARC Environmental and Planate Management Group for the Leak Investigation Study. The study identified that the main floor water condition was caused by the head pressure of the storm drain manhole on Fairly Street, which appeared undersized to handle additional drainage from the city’s new construction upstream. This discovery led to infrastructure upgrades, energy efficiency improvements, and interior renovations, enhancing the working environment for federal employees.

In 2023 and 2024, AFG continued its active involvement in enhancements to the building. Philip Brown, Sr. Project Manager, successfully completed projects such as the Access Denial Glazing Courthouse Hardening, Library Leak Repair, Chamber 300 Carpet Replacement, Chamber 500 Leak Repair, 627 Breakroom Renovation, Chamber 500 Renovation, Chamber 204 Renovation, EN Banc Courtroom AV/IT Upgrade, Panel Courtroom LED Lighting Upgrade, and the 340/430 Restroom Renovations.

Morris Gordon, Planner/Estimator, completed the Fitness Center Flooring Replacement Project on the 6th floor. Bruce Grant, Sr. Project Manager, successfully wrapped up the Coatings Leak Project at the garage driveway entrance. Additionally, Kenneth Newton, Sr. Project Manager, finalized the design for Chambers 323 and 324.

AFG has consistently demonstrated its ability to navigate the complexities of renovating a courthouse with historical significance, by building strong relationships with our stakeholders, and providing proactive solutions for our clients. We pride ourselves on ensuring that the Tuttle Federal Building continues to stand as a cornerstone in Atlanta while continuing to lead other transformative projects throughout the GSA Region 4’s eight states.

About the Authors

W. Dean Rowell, Vice President, Project Director,

Philip Brown, Sr. Project Manager,

About AFG Group, Inc.

AFG Group, Inc. is a woman-­owned firm focused on multi-­disciplined program, construction, and relocation management, with a national portfolio of work in healthcare, laboratories, courthouses, educational facilities, and government buildings. With 30 years of business acumen, AFG has earned a reputation for providing strong expertise, responsiveness, and project execution that helps owners navigate through complex design, procurement, construction, and activation processes.