By the late 1990s the 20-story building needed an upgrade to include a low maintenance system that would reduce energy costs. In August of 1998, building management hired Automated Building Controls Systems Inc. (ABC), a local partner of KMC, to upgrade the control system to the KMC product line. The project was completed by December that same year.

Shortly thereafter, building management noticed that the main goals of the project had been achieved. Major energy savings had taken place each month, as had a greater control of the building systems. According to management, “Our 20-story office building needed a control system that was easier to operate and control. KMC enabled us to integrate the systems in one user interface with the HVAC system being controlled by one central computer operating on WinControl®. The energy savings came as a bonus with the new easily-controlled integrated system.”

In the year 2000, the building was purchased by CB Richard Ellis investors (CBRE now manages and leases the space.). The new owner invested $1.8 million in improvements, including updating the building with a digital 24-hour security system that also ties the elevator and fire alarm together. ABC worked closely with other contractors to integrate the new systems into the existing KMC program.

According to Jody Byers, president of ABC, “SouthTrust Plaza managers have been making sound business decisions. The more systems integrated, the more control they gain from a common front end. In turn, they save time and money. Additionally, an easy-to-use interface for all of the systems in one program makes building control an easily mastered challenge for the operations staff.”

Today, SouthTrust Plaza serves as reminder of the success associated with proper investment. Its signature archway greets clients coming from the sites and sounds of the Franklin Street Mall, Lykes Gaslight Square Park, the Hyatt Regency Hotel and City Hall. The building is within easy walking distance to the Courthouse, several banks and over a dozen restaurants and dining clubs. Inside, amenities include a bank, dentist, sandwich shop, copy center, hair salon, and executive suites. An attached garage with valet and tenant parking, 24-hour electronic security, on-site management and service staff, as well as a security guard helps clients feel secure.

Of course, the greatest owner benefit achieved through these investments has been a secure competitive position.