Mendenhall Glacier Recreation Area is a highly popular destination for both tourists and local Alaskans. The visitorship has grown significantly over time, and the facilities no longer support the demand. In addition, climate change has resulted in a receding glacier, the focal point of the recreation area. The project at MGRA is a 10-year vision to improve facilities to meet increasing demand, address conflicts between visitors and wildlife, and create a world-class experience that will be educational and will create lifetime memories of the beauty of Mendenhall Glacier. The team’s full conceptual design through construction documentation for multiple projects includes trails, trailheads, parking areas, wildlife viewing boardwalks, visitor center exterior upgrades, and a new welcome center with exterior gathering spaces.
ECI Alaska Architecture