DuSable Museum

Originally designed by renowned architect Daniel Burnham and constructed in 1871, the Roundhouse is being re-developed as a LEED accredited building, and the next wing of the DuSable Museum. Situated within the bounds of Chicago Park District's Washington Park, this historic site poses unique challenges to the entire design team.

In addition to serving the project as both surveyor and civil Engineer-of-Record, EDI provides environmental remediation oversight for the 61,000 square foot Roundhouse building, built during times when lead paint and asbestos based insulation were common building materials. EDI oversaw the first stage of remediation, allowing a complete restoration of the building shell as well as a complete gutting of the interior Roundhouse in preparation for a phased buildout.

Serving in the role of lead Civil Engineer, EDI is responsible for site utilities, grading, design of pavements, and permitting of civil features including stormwater and driveways. Future phases currently in conception also include the creation of a museum campus to be created by closing of the street separating the two main buildings.

Paired with the complexities of historic preservation, the project presents new challenges on how to effectively manage remediation and control of hazardous conditions involving century-old lead-based paints and coatings. As part of the rehabilitation, asbestos-containing materials, lead-based paints and lead hazards are mitigated and abated through a coordinated and flexible plan to adjust for historical significance and architectural significant feature of the Roundhouse.