I designed a Distribution Center for Zip Code 90017. At that time the USPS assigned a staff Architect to the project conveying all their "standards". The most challenging part of the project was a suspended surveillance tunnel with one-way mirror viewports. The general public is not generally aware of these security measures. In this day of superior electronic systems, I questoned the need for these measures, but nothing has the legal standing of personally observing someone taking your property from the mail.
The Postal Inspection Service (Postal Police) worked on this aspect with us. Los Angeles was holding up a permit on this privately owned building due to "accessibility" concerns with the tunnel which changes planes abruptly, is painted flat black inside, and has minimum lighting. At a hearing we were able to persuade them that the tunnel could not be used by other than trained, physically fit individuals. The USPS owned central Distribution Center for Los Angeles has what seems like a mile of these tunnels.
The best way to become familiar with this specialized building type would be to arrange with your local Postmaster an escorted visit to a Post Office of the the general type you will be designing.
Congratulation s and good luck!
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H. Thomas Wilson AIA
Pasadena CA
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Original Message:
Sent: 02-07-2011 22:55
From: Frank Scherr
Subject: Small Post Office
I am doing research and a design for a small APO post office in El Salvador. Does anyone know of a reference for small post office design?
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Frank B. Scherr, AIA
Mobile AL
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