Major Structural Repairs Preserve Historic 'Home of the Commandants'

By James Johnson, Naval Facilities Engineering Command Public Affairs

WASHINGTON (NNS) -- WASHINGTON—Naval Facilities Engineering Command Washington completed restoration efforts on the historic residence of the Commandant of the United States Marine Corps at Marine Barracks Washington May 12.

The project required restoration and repairs to every aspect of the residence, including major structural repairs, a complete replacement of the HVAC system to be more energy efficient, electrical upgrades, exterior work on brick, mortar and wood trim, abatement of all lead paint and asbestos, new solar power equipment and Anti-terrorism/Force Protection site upgrades.

"NAVFAC is proud to deliver this project that enhances the mission of the Marine Barracks," said Igor Boras, project manager, NAVFAC Washington. "This renovation has preserved a National Historic Landmark that has served the Marine Corps and United States of America for over 200 years."

The Home of the Commandants was built in 1806 at the direction of President Thomas Jefferson and has housed all but the first two Marine Corps Commandants. It is the oldest, continuously occupied public building in Washington D.C., according to the Marines Corps. In 2004 and 2008, structural inspections showed severe deterioration of exterior brick and mortar which had caused structural problems throughout the rest of the residence.

To meet the highest standards in maintaining historical aspects of the building, work was coordinated with the District of Columbia State Historic Preservation Office and the services of a historic preservation architect, who has worked previously on the U.S. Capitol and Washington Monument, were obtained.

The prime contractor, G-W Management Services was awarded a $3.7 million contract on June 17, 2010, to complete the project. Boras said G-W Management Services provided innovative solutions to accomplish their task, and noted that work was completed ahead of schedule and within budget, despite numerous contract modifications. No safety mishaps occurred during construction.

A ribbon-cutting ceremony is scheduled for May 20 at Marine Barracks Washington.