Description

This project will replace and relocate the HVAC and mechanical systems, replace or repair deteriorated exterior woodwork, and tuck-point the building’s limestone masonry. It will redesign and replace outdated educational exhibits, provide cases for sensitive artifacts, update lighting to increase energy efficiencies and reduce ultraviolet effects on exhibits and artifacts, and address accessibility concerns.

Project Need

The visitor center at the Fullersburg Woods Nature Education Center attracts approximately 45,000 preserve users a year of which about 21,000 are children from schools within the larger 6 County Chicagoland metropolitan area. The HVAC and mechanical systems are at the end of their useful life and need to be relocated for easier access. During major rains the lower level continues to flood, requiring extensive clean up and creating problems with humidity. After years of such wear, the exterior woodwork needs to be replaced or repainted, and the interior and exterior limestone masonry needs tuckpointing and minor repairs. The exhibits have not been significantly changed over the past 15 years and need to be refreshed to better enhance visitors’ experiences.