DETAILS
Inside the Reinvention of a Hidden Space Beneath an Active Landmark
The Lincoln Memorial Undercroft project converted a previously unfinished and largely inaccessible space beneath the monument into a museum-quality interpretive center designed to expand the visitor experience while preserving the integrity of the historic structure above.
The rehabilitation introduced exhibit space, visitor amenities, elevators, and upgraded life safety, mechanical, electrical, plumbing, and security systems within the memorial’s historic foundation. The work also included widened entrances, terrace waterproofing improvements, and modifications to support long-term accessibility and operational performance.
Executing this transformation presented significant logistical and preservation challenges. The memorial remains one of the most heavily visited sites in the National Park system, requiring public access and visitor circulation to remain uninterrupted throughout construction. Because the project required replacement of the memorial’s existing elevator, temporary accessibility solutions and carefully phased work sequencing were necessary to maintain visitor access at all times.
Construction activities were further complicated by extremely constrained site logistics, with all personnel, equipment, and materials entering through a single access point beneath the memorial. At the same time, the project team must protect the monument’s historic board-formed concrete structure, original marble elements, and historic graffiti uncovered within the undercroft space.
Through disciplined coordination and preservation-focused planning, Procon helped transform a neglected space beneath the Lincoln Memorial into a new public destination while safeguarding the integrity of one of the nation’s most iconic landmarks.
OUR ROLE
Construction Management in a High-Visibility, Active Public Environment
Procon is providing construction management and quality oversight within a site that receives more than eight million visitors annually. Our team coordinates phased construction activities to maintain continuous public access, including implementation of temporary accessibility solutions during elevator replacement and staged modifications to the monument’s primary entrances.
Logistics, Phasing & Access Coordination
With a single access point for all personnel and materials, the project requires tightly controlled sequencing and coordination. Procon manages site logistics, scheduling, and contractor activities to maintain progress within a constrained footprint while minimizing disruption to visitors and ongoing operations.
Preservation, Risk & Integration Management
Procon supports protection of historic elements, including original concrete, marble, and documented historic graffiti, while managing unforeseen site conditions through structured change management, schedule analysis, and cost negotiation. Our team also coordinates integration of a separate exhibit design contract with base building construction, ensuring alignment across scope, sequencing, and delivery.
