Renovation and Construction

Development Team:

Financial Partners:

This project is a shining example of how goals of the community can be transformed into an architectural form for the people of Shaw. An award winning team of architects, engineers, and contractors are making the vision of the Thurgood Marshall Center Trust a reality. Construction on this project began in September of 1998 and is expected to be completed in January 2000.

A picture of the front of the building at the start of construction.

The center will receive a complete face-lift on the exterior while preserving all of its historic features. The interior will receive all new mechanical, electrical, and plumbing systems.

A picture of the pool on the ground floor that will be transformed into a Learning Center.	A picture of the lobby at the start of construction.

Certain spaces will be restored to their original grandeur, while other spaces will be transformed from single room occupancy spaces to office space for the new tenants. Also included in this 35,000 square foot building are plans for a heritage museum, gymnasium, and learning center.

A picture of the north wall that will be transformed into a dining area.	A picture of the lobby doors.

The first three months of this project were dedicated to the meticulous demolition of the building. Because the building is a National Landmark, great care and extensive time was allotted to assure the "deconstruction" of this building would not affect the building's integrity nor its historic areas.

A picture of the lobby after demolition.	A picture of the second floor during demolition.

Current Updates

The project is ramping up with significant activity now underway at the site. Smoot has nearly ten subcontractors involved in the project with others joining weekly.

Mechanical Systems - The sheetmetal contractors currently are working on installing ductwork for the heating and ventilation systems on the third floor. These contractors are also currently insulating the duct on the fourth floor. The engineers must be commended for creating a solution to place new energy efficient mechanical systems in a building built over eighty years ago.

Rough Carpentry - The rough carpentry subcontractor is preparing the penetrations for the air handling units that will be placed in the third floor ceiling space. This subcontractor is also repairing all damaged areas in the floors. Nevertheless, a new subfloor will be placed over all existing floors on all the levels.

Plumbing - The plumber is now trenching in the basement creating new underground utilities. The basement will now house a Learning Center with new classrooms, bathroom, kitchens, and mechanical rooms.

Masonry Restoration - The masons continue to repoint, remove, and replace damaged bricks. The subcontractors have also been cleaning both the south and west facades of the building. The cleaned bricks now look tremendous.

A picture of the basement plumbing trenching.