MFS Construction, LLC is proud to announce that it has been awarded a contract by the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service for the construction of the Great Swamp National Wildlife Refuge (NWR) Multi-Purpose Facility Addition to the Helen C. Fenske Visitor Center. This project, which involves both construction and project management services, represents a significant enhancement to the refuge's capacity and operational efficiency.
The Great Swamp NWR Facility Addition project involves constructing a 5,000-square-foot building designed to expand the existing Helen C. Fenske Visitor Center. The current facility, which hosts visitors weekly, features educational spaces such as the History Hallway, the Library, and various exhibits highlighting local habitats and wildlife. The new addition will not only support these educational efforts but also serve as the future headquarters for National Wildlife Refuge (NWR) staff, providing expanded office and meeting spaces.
The construction will focus on a steel-and wood-framed building that will include a multi-purpose room, additional office space, and storage areas. The project also entails the installation of new electrical and HVAC systems, an upgraded electrical service, and a new septic system that will serve both the existing and new facilities. Additional site work includes the installation of a charging station for electric vehicles and rain gardens to enhance site drainage.
In addition to the new building construction, the project will involve upgrades to the existing Intrusion Detection System (IDS) and Video Surveillance System (VSS) within the Fenske Visitor Center. Renovations will also include demolishing an existing bathroom, with new bathroom facilities being constructed in the new addition. The overall goal is to improve the capacity and functionality of the Fenske Visitor Center, thereby enhancing the operations of NWR staff and optimizing the visitor experience.
Work on this project began in July 2024, with final completion expected by January 24th, 2026. This project was awarded as part of MFS Construction LLC's indefinite delivery/indefinite quantity (ID/IQ) Alteration/Repair Construction Services Multiple Award Task Order Contract (MATOC) for construction, maintenance, repair, and alteration of real property to support the Great American Outdoors Act (GAOA).
MFS Construction, LLC is committed to delivering this project with the highest standards of quality and efficiency, ensuring minimal disruption to NWR staff, volunteers, and visitors.
Picture: The existing Great Swamp NWR Facility, soon to be enhanced with the new addition.