Modernization of Historic Carnegie-Era Libraries Underway

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Two Carnegie public library branches in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania will undergo extensive modernization, while also retaining the historic character of each. Working in conjunction with Rebuild Philadelphia and DIGroup Architecture, general contractors Pride Enterprises and TN Ward Company, respectively, recently broke ground for the reconstruction of these early 20th century-era buildings: the $13.2-million Carnegie-funded Paschalville (circa 1915) and the $8.5-million Blanche A. Nixon Cobbs Creek (circa 1925) library branches. Serving the Paschalville, Elmwood and Cobbs Creek neighborhoods, these important community anchors are a key resource for local students and workforce development. Like many historic places, the libraries required a site, structure, … Read more

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Lehigh University Awards $70M Contract to Redevelop Historic Clayton University Center in Pennsylvania

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Lehigh University has awarded construction and development firm Skanska a $70-million contract to redevelop its historic Clayton University Center located in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania. The 24-month project will encompass both the renovation and preservation of the existing Clayton University Center, while maintaining the historic nuances of the building. Key project elements include the delivery of utility upgrades, inclusive of new electrical service, mechanical systems and equipment, as well as the installation of a full fire protection system. Gathering spaces, offices, meeting rooms and lounge areas will undergo renovations and all doors, windows and the slate and copper roofing systems will be … Read more

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SNC-Lavalin Awarded Program Management Consultancy Services Contract for Historic Jeddah in Saudi Arabia

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A project management consultancy services contract has been awarded to SNC-Lavalin Group Inc., by the Ministry of Culture in Saudi Arabia, to support the development of Historic Jeddah, which is a UNESCO World Heritage site. The Historic Jeddah Development Program aims to revitalize the living space in the city by attracting new businesses and cultural projects, based on a modern vision of urban planning and natural conservation harmonized with the people’s needs. The Historic Jeddah area, known locally as Al-Balad (the town), is situated on the eastern shore of the Red Sea and was established in the 7th century A.D. … Read more

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Turning Historic Preservation Project Challenges into Opportunities

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Building within a geothermal field at a historic site By Phil Root The Michigan State Capitol opened in 1879 in Lansing. As with historic structures, it has undergone multiple restorations. Following an exterior restoration in 1992, it was named a National Historic Landmark and welcomes more than 115,000 visitors annually. After the 1992 restoration, protection of newly renovated spaces became a top priority, and state officials discussed adding a welcome center. After the exterior dome and stone façade restoration in 2015, a $70-million infrastructure project was approved to repair failing systems. Work included electrical, mechanical, plumbing, fire suppression/alarm and building … Read more

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Training the Future to Preserve the Past

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6 tips for construction of historic preservation projects By John Shea Presently, the scarcity of land is increasing the demand for renovation of historic buildings. Bridging a building’s history and architectural significance, with the elements of modern use and building design, sets forth no small task for superintendents. The nature of historic preservation projects, and the inherent complexities associated with them, dictate the need for specialized expertise and training of those responsible for bringing them back to life. Translating those lessons learned to the new generation of superintendents is vital to the future of construction. Whether an old historic college … Read more

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