Despite all the challenges, complications and unexpected events that can occur during a project, the end result makes it all worth it. To recognize the success and pride of seeing the final product, we're looking back at five of the most notable projects completed in the U.S. this year. We had to pick just a few projects from the countless options, but we want to know, are there any you'd add to the list? Let us know.
U.S. Bank Stadium — Minneapolis
Mortenson completed the Minnesota Vikings' new home, U.S. Bank Stadium, in June after three years of construction. Despite some bumps along the way involving unsettled change orders, Mortenson completed the $1.1 billion, 70,000-seat Minneapolis stadium weeks ahead of schedule. The project represents the largest public-private venture in Minnesota's history.
MGM National Harbor casino complex — Oxon Hill, MD
The $1.4 billion, 24-story MGM National Harbor casino complex in Oxon Hill, MD, was completed in December. General contractor Whiting-Turner exceeded its local hiring requirements during construction, and the project is expected to result in a boon for local development. The complex just outside of Washington, DC, includes a 125,000-square foot casino, a 308-room hotel, a 27,000 square-foot spa, a 3,000-seat theater, 18,000 square feet of shopping and dining space and 50,000 square feet of convention and meeting areas.
National Museum of African American History and Culture — Washington, DC
The National Museum of African American History and Culture opened in September after overcoming decades of planning and funding obstacles. The Clark-Smoot-Russell team was brought onto the $540 million Smithsonian project in 2012 to manage construction. The builders operated under an accelerated schedule while executing a challenging design on the National Mall. They completed the museum on time and expect to earn LEED Gold certification.
T3 office building — Minneapolis
The seven-story, 220,000-square-foot T3 (Timber, Technology, Transit) office building in Minneapolis opened in November, marking the largest contemporary mass timber building in the U.S. The building's designer, Michael Green Architecture, used engineered wood for the interior and exterior of the structure and concrete for the foundation. The timber building is part of a growing trend across the globe to incorporate wood into high-rise construction.
Golden 1 Center — Sacramento, CA
The Sacramento Kings' $557 million Golden 1 Center opened to the public in October. The venue, designed by AECOM and built by Turner Construction, is the world's first LEED Platinum-certified indoor sports venue. It is powered by solar panels on the roof during the day and by a nearby solar farm during events. Builders also used 36% recycled materials for the arena and recycled athletic shoes for a layer of its portable courts.
