Maryland contractor to construct Washington Monument’s planned visitor center, new elevator

Since August 2016, the Washington Monument has been closed due to needed repairs to the structure’s elevator. Recently, the National Park Service awarded a $10.8 million contract to Rockville, Maryland-based Grunley Construction to complete the project, according to WAMU.

There are also plans to create a new, glassy security screening center that will be able to hold up to 20 visitors and offer full ballistic and blast protection features.

Philanthropist David Rubenstein donated $3 million to the project, which will cover the overhaul and modernization of the elevator. Rubenstein previously funded the Washington Monument’s $7.5 million restoration in 2012. The restoration occurred after an earthquake cracked the structure.

The Washington Post reported that the elevator in the Washington Monument lasted 15 years, which is pretty normal as the life expectancy for elevators is between 15 and 20 years, depending on usage.

The Washington Monument is expected to open by the spring of 2019.

Rendering via National Park Service

• Maryland Contractor Hired To Renovate Washington Monument [WAMU]

• Washington Monument will have a new elevator system and screening area when it reopens in 2019 [The Washington Post]

• The Washington Monument will get a new, glassy security screening center [Curbed DC]

• Washington Monument closed until 2019 [Curbed DC]