Reaching New Milestones on the Path to Completion
The Theodore Roosevelt Presidential Library (TRPL) has reached several remarkable milestones in its journey to becoming a hub of history, learning, and environmental stewardship. This October, we celebrated an exciting achievement—the official “topping out” of the main building structure on October 9, 2024. This traditional milestone marks the installation of the highest point of the building and is a major step in bringing this ambitious vision to life.
Structural Completion: Timber, Steel, and Sustainability
At TRPL, construction isn’t just about building a space—it’s about building a legacy. We are proud to say that the library’s framework showcases sustainable materials and construction methods, honoring Roosevelt’s conservationist legacy. The use of mass timber—a combination of glulam beams and cross-laminated timber (CLT) decking—has transformed the building into a model of structural integrity and sustainability. This commitment to eco-friendly construction reflects Roosevelt’s dedication to environmental conservation.
Our primary steel structure is also fully complete, including beams and columns that will support the building’s roof. The parapet and façade steelwork are underway, shaping the library’s distinctive profile against the North Dakota skyline.
Roofing and Wall Construction: Protection and Natural Design
With the structural framework in place, work moved quickly to complete the roof concrete, which now provides essential protection for the interior of the building as we head into winter. One of the most visually striking aspects of the TRPL’s design is the rammed earth walls—an architectural choice that speaks to the natural beauty and resourceful spirit of the North Dakota landscape. These unique walls add an organic, earthy quality to the library, perfectly aligning with TRPL’s sustainable design philosophy.
Preparing for Winter: Temporary Enclosures
In North Dakota, winters are as bold as they come, so ensuring that construction continues uninterrupted is a top priority. Now that our primary structural work is complete, temporary enclosures are being set up. These measures will keep our construction crews warm and the progress steady as we continue working on interior installations through the colder months.
Operations and Maintenance Building: Essential Infrastructure
Alongside the main library, the Operations and Maintenance building is progressing smoothly. We’ve poured the footings, completed the wall framing, and are in the midst of concrete pours. This facility will serve as a critical part of our infrastructure, supporting everything from day-to-day operations to long-term maintenance needs.
Mechanical, Electrical, and Plumbing (MEP): Setting the Foundation for Functionality
Laying the groundwork for the library’s essential systems, we’re pleased to report that MEP underground installations in the east building are now complete. These foundational elements are crucial for powering the library and ensuring a comfortable environment for future visitors.
Water and Wastewater Infrastructure: Building Self-Sufficiency
In a testament to TRPL’s self-sustaining ethos, the water and wastewater infrastructure is also coming together. With water storage and wastewater treatment tanks installed, the library is on track to support its own water management needs, minimizing its environmental impact while maximizing efficiency.
Looking Ahead: Slab-on-Grade and Boardwalk Foundations
With structural milestones behind us, we’re moving toward the next major construction phases. Over the winter, we’ll focus on the slab-on-grade phase, which will see the pouring and finishing of ground-level concrete slabs. This crucial step will provide foundational surfaces within the library, setting the stage for interior finishing.
Additionally, boardwalk foundation work is scheduled to begin shortly. This boardwalk will be more than just a pathway—it will be an immersive connection between visitors and the library’s landscape, offering easy access to the library’s many outdoor features and scenic views.
A Vision on the Horizon
The progress made so far reflects the dedication and skill of everyone involved in this project. With the main structural elements, roof, and essential infrastructure complete, we’re well on our way to realizing the vision of the Theodore Roosevelt Presidential Library. As we work through the winter, interior installations and further infrastructure advancements will continue to keep the project on track.
Each beam, wall, and pathway we build is a tribute to Roosevelt’s legacy and a foundation for future generations. We look forward to sharing more updates with you as we move closer to opening a place of inspiration, learning, and connection with the past and future alike. Thank you for joining us on this journey.