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W W W. M A I N E B I Z . B I Z 23 S E P T E M B E R 2 1 , 2 0 2 6 F O C U S A U G U S TA / WAT E R V I L L E / C E N T R A L M A I N E Unforeseen conditions e Cultural Building, located at the State House complex in Augusta, became unoccupiable in 2020 after the mechanical systems failed. e state's Bureau of General Services oversaw the renova- tion, which began with the removal of the col- lections of the museum, library and archives to storage locations. Starting in 2021, extensive asbestos abate- ment was carried out. A construction contract was awarded in 2022. Doten's Construction in Freeport was the construction contractor. WSP, an engineering and professional services firm headquartered in Canada with a New York City base, carried out architec- tural and engineering services for asbestos abate- ment and mechanical system upgrades. During the course of work, contractors encoun- tered a steady stream of unforeseen conditions including various system deficiencies. As a result, the scope of work increased to take advantage of the mostly vacant, nearly 60-year-old building, which desperately needed upgrades and repairs. "e main problem the museum had was the climate control," says Fishman. "at's important for a museum, as well as the two other cultural agencies: We all have historical materials." A new HVAC system was installed and plumb- ing, mechanical, electric, smoke alarms and IT cables were repaired or replaced. Energy savings were a major focus, with added insulation, a new roof and window replacements. Life-safety sys- tems were upgraded. Security was improved, including the addition of a security desk in the main lobby. Bathrooms were upgraded to ADA standards. Several founda- tion and other leaks were repaired. e museum used the opportunity to change its exhibit layout and exhibits. e library and archives, which flank the museum, received appro- priations for compact shelving that reduced stor- age areas and improved efficiency. Contact us today. We look forward to the conversation. mitc.com For Maine small business owners focused on growth, exporting is one way to diversify revenue, reduce risk, and find new customers, as well as help to attract and retain high-performing professionals. Whether you are new to exporting or have been selling internationally for decades, Maine International Trade Center (MITC) helps Maine companies succeed in global markets. Our team will provide customized information, guidance, and referrals. exporting companies generally pay 20% higher wages We're here to help you navigate the changing international landscape. C O N T I N U E D O N F O L L OW I N G PA G E » It gave us the opportunity to think about what would come back when the renovation was finished, so we sort of made the classic lemonade out of lemons. — Bernard Fishman Maine State Museum

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