State Archive Preservation Facility

The State Archive Preservation Facility stands as a beacon of modernity and sophistication, heralded as one of the world’s premier historical storage facilities. This new 188,000 square feet building spans across four stories, serving as storage for the State’s most cherished and historically significant artifacts within its climate-controlled confines.

Situated on a 5.1-acre plot adjacent to the Yahara River between East Washington and Williamson Street, the facility repurposes a site once utilized for state vehicles, mail handling, and printing services, which have since relocated to other locations in Madison.

Affectionately known as “the safe,” this facility distinguishes itself from a museum, operating primarily behind closed doors. While public access is limited, occasional tours and open houses provide glimpses into its inner workings. Under the vigilant guardianship of esteemed institutions such as the Wisconsin Historical Society, Wisconsin Veterans Museum, and the Wisconsin Center for Film and Theater Research, the facility safeguards invaluable historical treasures.

While we constructed the entire building our team focused on key aspects of this project, undertaking self-performance of concrete, masonry, steel erection, and carpentry work. Precision was paramount, particularly in crafting the concrete floors tailored to accommodate the Storage Rail Systems. Our comprehensive understanding of concrete placement and finish specifications, including stringent level requirements, ensured meticulous execution. A precise phasing plan communicated the intricate workflow, supplemented by detailed pour cards carefully scrutinized by multiple stakeholders within the company to assure accuracy.

Recognizing the importance of the facility’s enclosure in preserving the internal environment, proactive coordination meetings were convened at the project’s outset to preemptively address any potential conflicts before they’d arise. Similarly, early-stage clash coordination sessions facilitated seamless integration of MEPF Systems, vital to final operations.

Through detailed pre-planning and proactive collaboration with stakeholders, including the owner, architects, engineer, and subcontractors, our team played a pivotal role in ensuring the project’s resounding success.