News Release Archive

Reclamation Awards $2.45 Million Contract for New 'Green Building' at Hoover Dam

Media Contact: Rose Davis, 702-293-8421

For Release: July 11, 2012

WASHINGTON - The Bureau of Reclamation has awarded a $2.45 million design-build contract to Martin-Harris Construction of Las Vegas, for a multi-use building at Hoover Dam to replace the original Spillway House on the Nevada side of the dam with a new sustainable 'green' building.

Since the project is within the National Historic Landmark boundary at Hoover Dam, the construction activities will be carefully monitored to maintain the integrity of the historic setting. The fully accessible building will offer interactive interpretive exhibits to complement the tours offered at the Visitor Center. The building will also be available for other uses ranging from meetings to special events while the exhibits are open to the public.

"This innovative structure will provide new opportunities for visitors at one of the nation's premier historic icons and tourism destinations," Reclamation Commissioner Michael L. Connor said today. "This new green building will provide a modern venue for interpretation, education and special events – an investment that helps support the administration's initiative to promote tourism at federally managed sites across America. This project also creates jobs and supports the local economy, while enhancing the visitor experience at Hoover Dam."

Work will begin in August and should be completed in the fall of 2013. Approximately 80 percent of the building's energy requirements will be provided by rooftop solar photovoltaic panels. The design and construction also integrates sustainable materials, solar hot water heaters, and unique lighting strategies along with other innovative conservation measures.

The project is funded by the Southern Nevada Public Land Management Act. SNPLMA authorizes the sale of federal lands in Clark County, Nevada, and directs those revenues to projects including capital improvements on federally managed recreation areas in southern Nevada.

Visitor opportunities will continue during the construction. Hoover Dam attracts more than 800,000 people annually to its guided powerplant tours. More information on the amenities offered, and the crucial role of Hoover Dam in providing water and power to the West is available online at: http://www.usbr.gov/lc/hooverdam/.

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The Bureau of Reclamation is a federal agency under the U.S. Department of the Interior and is the nation's largest wholesale water supplier and second largest producer of hydroelectric power. Our facilities also provide substantial flood control, recreation opportunities, and environmental benefits. Visit our website at https://www.usbr.gov and follow us on Twitter @USBR; Facebook @bureau.of.reclamation; LinkedIn @Bureau of Reclamation; Instagram @bureau_of_reclamation; and YouTube @reclamation.

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Hoover Dam