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Washington, DC – The National Archives and Records Administration (NARA) has awarded a significant $75.7 million construction contract to Grunley Construction of Rockville, Maryland, to renovate the historic National Archives Building in Washington, DC.
The renovation project includes updates to the building’s mechanical, electrical, security, and fire alarm systems, while ensuring compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and modern national building codes. One of the most notable features will be the creation of new visitor entrances beneath the iconic Constitution Avenue stairs, providing easier and more inclusive access to the building that houses the Charters of Freedom — the Declaration of Independence, U.S. Constitution, and the Bill of Rights.
These new entrances are designed to ensure that all Americans can access the building and its precious documents. Inside the Rotunda, renovations will also include new display cases for the Charters of Freedom, as well as modifications that will offer improved accessibility for elderly and disabled individuals to the Rotunda and all exhibit areas. The renovation will also enhance public exhibition spaces that showcase the nation’s documentary history. Plans are also in place for a 294-seat theater beneath Constitution Avenue, subject to private funding.
“The renovation of the National Archives Building will ensure that future generations will have access to the documents that shaped our nation, while enhancing the overall visitor experience,” said a spokesperson from the National Archives.
The National Archives Rotunda will be temporarily closed to the public starting July 5, 2021, with plans to reopen in September 2023. The full renovation is expected to be completed in 2024. However, the research side of the building, including the Textual and Microfilm research rooms, will remain open throughout the renovation.
For more information, visit the National Archives website at www.archives.gov.
For press inquiries, please contact the National Archives Public Affairs team at (301) 837-1700 or via email.