Mortenson Breaks Ground on New Headquarters for American Academy of Neurology

Minneapolis, MN – Community leaders and American Academy of Neurology and Mortenson representatives gathered today to celebrate the start of construction of American Academy of Neurology’s new headquarters located in historic Mill District in downtown Minneapolis.

Scheduled for completion in spring 2012, the 62,000 square foot headquarters will serve current American Academy of Neurology staff of 140 and will support future growth by 30 percent.

“Building a permanent home of enduring quality for the American Academy of Neurology and its staff is highly rewarding for our organization,” said Ken Sorensen, vice president and general manager of Mortenson’s Minneapolis office. “The American Academy of Neurology will be a great addition to the City of Minneapolis and the Mill District area.”

As an integrated developer-builder, Mortenson worked closely with the American Academy of Neurology, Nelson, Tietz & Hoye, ESG Architects, Inc., and 20 Below Studio, to submit a successful proposal to the City of Minneapolis for acquisition of land at Washington and Chicago Avenues. The property is one of the last undeveloped properties in the Mill District.

Mortenson anticipates the majority of work on this project will be performed by Minnesota businesses and will bring 125 construction jobs to the area. The American Academy of Neurology and Mortenson are committed to inclusion and have voluntarily established community participation goals for the project; 15% for women and minority business participation and 21% for opportunities women and minority workers. To date, Mortenson has awarded $2 million in contracts to women and minority owned firms.

“We are thrilled about reaching this significant groundbreaking milestone,” said Catherine M. Rydell, CAE, Executive Director and CEO of the American Academy of Neurology. “We are one step closer to becoming a part of this dynamic community and are pleased with the support that Mortenson and the entire project team have provided us.”

The new global headquarters will welcome Academy member neurologists who attend board, committee, and work group meetings. It will include an outdoor sensory garden and a grand staircase that connects all five levels and will capture views of the Minneapolis skyline and the riverfront. The team will pursue LEED Silver certification for the new headquarters.

About American Academy of Neurology
The American Academy of Neurology is the world’s largest professional association of neurologists and the largest trade association in the Twin Cities. Founded by the chair of the neurology department at the University of Minnesota in 1948, the American Academy of Neurology has  24,000 neurologists and neuroscience professionals dedicated to promoting the highest quality patient-centered neurologic care. For more information about the Academy, visit www.aan.com.