Minneapolis Public Schools Selects Mortenson to Develop and Build New District Headquarters

Minneapolis, MN — Mortenson is pleased to announce our selection for the new district headquarters for the Minneapolis Public Schools.  For more than a decade, the district has faced significant challenges such as a decline in enrollment and downsized staffing. Currently, central administrative operations are spread among several aged, inefficient buildings that do not offer a welcoming and accessible atmosphere for parents, community members and staff.
 
The $27.5 million project was awarded after a thorough proposal and interview process that began July 2009. Mortenson organized a diverse team that includes several respected organizations within the Minneapolis community, including Mortenson Development and Legacy Management to lead development and project management efforts; Mortenson
Construction and Thor Construction as construction partners; Piper Jaffray as the financing and leasing partner; and architecture and engineering planning through UrbanWorks Architecture, Urban Design Perspectives and Dunham Associates.

The team proposal responded to the district’s goals of consolidating its central administration staff into one location—one that will provide financial savings for the district, serve as a model of environmental sustainability, have a significant impact on the community, as well as enhance opportunities for women and minority owned businesses and workers.

After an interview process that took place in April and several follow up community meetings, the board voted five to two in favor of the Mortenson/Legacy team for a new facility in a North Minneapolis location. The new site will incorporate a 173,000 square foot facility that is organized in two wings and connected through a link that will house all common areas and parking for 500.  LEED Silver certification will also be pursued for this project. Construction is scheduled to begin Fall 2010 and complete Summer 2012.