Temporary Visitors Center at Antietam National Battlefield Park
Project Overview
In collaboration with a leading General Contractor, USMGE undertook the construction of a temporary modular visitors center at Antietam National Battlefield Park. This initiative was aimed at facilitating visitor engagement during the renovation phase of the existing Visitors Center. USMGE’s contribution involved the provision of a comprehensive 5,000 square foot modular building, built by Titan Modular Systems, tailored to accommodate diverse functionalities.
This phase-one project spanned over two years, featuring essential facilities such as retail space, film rooms, exhibit rooms, an information center, and restrooms. Upon the completion of the renovation phase, these modular buildings were strategically relocated to a permanent site in Frederick, MD, situated within another US Park Service facility.
This relocation served the purpose of promoting education and training, aligning with USMGE’s commitment to repurposing and extending the functionality of these structures beyond their initial deployment at Antietam National Battlefield Park. This innovative approach not only addressed immediate visitor needs during renovations but also contributed to broader educational initiatives in a different park setting.
Challenges and Goals
Antietam National Battlefield Park, a revered site listed on the U.S. National Register of Historic Places, presented unique challenges demanding meticulous preservation efforts. The paramount goal was to ensure minimal disruption to the sacred grounds surrounding the new modular building. Given this imperative, modular construction emerged as an ideal solution, as the bulk of the construction occurred off-site, significantly reducing disturbance to the historical site. However, the project encountered further complexities during the relocation phase, necessitating additional care and attention.
The tear-down, transportation, and site restoration process at the initial location demanded meticulous handling to preserve the integrity of the hallowed ground. Moreover, the relocation to a new site mandated similar meticulous care requirements to uphold the historical significance and environmental considerations,
Sustainability Approach
Throughout the conception and execution of the modular visitors center project at Antietam National Battlefield Park, sustainability remained a pivotal consideration. USMGE’s commitment to sustainability extended beyond the immediate construction phase. The utilization of modular construction inherently minimized environmental impact by optimizing resources and reducing on-site disturbance, aligning with eco-friendly practices. Furthermore, the strategic relocation of these modular buildings to a new site in Frederick, MD, exemplified a sustainable approach.
This repurposing initiative showcased a dedication to extending the lifecycle of structures, reducing waste, and fostering educational opportunities within a different park setting. The careful planning involved in the tear-down, transportation, and restoration processes not only preserved historical integrity but also underscored a commitment to environmental stewardship. By seamlessly integrating sustainability into both construction and relocation phases, the project showcased USMGE’s holistic approach to preserving heritage sites while promoting long-term environmental responsibility and educational outreach.
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