THE PROJECT

Project Highlights
  • Two-story civic facility featuring exposed glulam beams and columns with DLT ceiling panels, supporting Washington County’s sustainability goals
  • Signature engineered elements include double-beam atrium framing integrating MEP, a vibration-controlled second-floor bridge, feature stair, and steel-supported atrium façade and terrace fins

Washington County Central Service Center, a modern, community-focused hub, is a new two-story, 32,000-square-foot facility designed to streamline essential public services, from licensing and passports to public health and career resources, in a welcoming, sustainable environment. Reflecting the county’s commitment to environmental stewardship, the building features a full mass timber structural system with exposed glulam beams and columns and DLT panels at the ceilings.

OUR IMPACT

DOUBLE BEAMS

reduced structure depth and created key design feature

MASS TIMBER CONSTRUCTION

resulted in lower carbon footprint

WELCOMING COMMUNITY HUB

offers efficient services for 80,000+ residents
Service Provided
  • Structural engineering

OUR SOLUTIONS

MBJ partnered closely with the architect throughout the design process, guiding decisions on wood species, finishes, and both visible and concealed connection strategies to achieve the desired architectural aesthetic. Prior to selecting a mass timber supplier, MBJ guided the team through structural and architectural possibilities, and later served as the technical liaison between the architect and mass timber supplier. Our engineering contributions shaped several signature elements of the building, including the double-beam atrium framing that integrates lighting and MEP, the elegant second-floor bridge supported by roof-beam hangers for vibration control, the feature stair that mirrors the bridge’s boxed-channel form, and the steel framing that supports the two-story atrium façade and west terrace fins. MBJ’s detailed coordination and structural leadership helped transform this first-of-its-kind mass timber facility into a beautifully executed community hub that delivers long-term performance, sustainability, and a distinctive user experience.

Location:

Woodbury, MN

Completion Date:

2025

Construction Cost:

$30,000,000

Owner:

Washington County

Architect:

Alliiance

Contractor:

Kraus-Anderson

Mass Timber Supplier:

StructureCraft

Back