The Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts underwent a multi-year, $136-million expansion to create space where the community can engage and interact with artists across the full spectrum of the creative process. Much-needed rehearsal, education, and various flexible indoor and outdoor spaces were added to allow the Center to continue playing a national and global leadership role in providing artistic, cultural, and enrichment opportunities for all. Named “The REACH” to honor President John F. Kennedy’s vision for the arts, the expansion included the construction of three new pavilions that contain studios, rehearsal halls, media-ready classrooms, a traditional lecture hall, space to accommodate critical education programs, an outdoor wall for simulcast/video presentations, and a café.

F&R provided environmental and construction materials testing and special inspections for the REACH project. These CMT and inspection services were extensive and included testing of soils, concrete, asphalt, mortar, and structural steel. In addition to these, F&R also inspected waterproofing and monitored static load pile testing. Most of the designed expansion rests on steel piles, with over 500 total. The piles highlighted the variability of the subsurface, which presented challenges during construction.

F&R’s environmental team also provided hazardous materials monitoring and oversight during construction and excavation operations and managed the disposal of remediated soils.