September 2024

Emma S. Barrientos Mexican American Cultural Center Phase 2 Improvements Project Update

 

Please see the information below for the latest updates on progress, photos, and announcements.

• The new air conditioning system has been successfully connected to Austin Energy Chilled Water District Cooling Network.
• Framing for new ceilings, or soffits, at the exterior walkways has been completed.
• Structural steel erection is in progress and is ahead of schedule.
• Concrete retaining walls are being formed. These walls are designed to hold soil to a slope creating an accessible route from the Zocalo to the Butler Hike & Bike Trail.
• Renovation of the interiors including new partitions, or walls, being framed with metal studs.
• Trial methods of cleaning the building's exterior of rust and environmental pollutants are being tested so that there is no damage to the precast, concrete panels.
• City Council approved artists, Katherine Telley and Ruben Esquivel, to design and fabricate artwork for the Emma S. Barrientos Mexican American Cultural Center (ESB MACC Phase 2), Art in Public Places (AIPP) Project.

 

South Building Addition: Steel erection in progress.

 

Building: Framing for exterior replacement soffit or ceiling complete.

 

Zocalo: Excavation and rebar installation in preparation for the retaining wall.

 

Building: Metal stud framing of new partitions or walls for new Youth Offices.

 

Building: Trial cleaning method of the building exterior.

 

Group photo after day one of our Topping Off event.

 

Senator Gonzalo Barrientos signing the beam during day two of our Topping Off event.

 

MACC staff and community members signing the beam during day two of our Topping Off event.

 

ANNOUNCEMENTS

• A major construction milestone was met with the lifting of the top steel beam known as "Topping Off". This event was recognized by MACC Board Members, Senator Gonzalo Barrientos, and community members with the signing of the beam before placement. Additional photos and videos of the event can be viewed here.
• Concrete pours and steel deliveries will continue. Work hours will adhere to the City’s noise ordinance. Ordinance information can be found here.
• The Confluence, a separate public/private partnership project, has increased activities at the MACC, as the parking lot is the construction access point. Additional information on The Confluence can be found here.
• Read last month's project update here.