Bicentennial Capitol Mall
S&ME played a key role in the transformation of Nashville’s Bicentennial Capitol Mall State Park and the development of two major civic landmarks at its northern end—the Tennessee State Museum and the Tennessee State Library and Archives. Spanning 19 acres, the park serves as a symbolic extension of the Tennessee State Capitol and is anchored by these cultural institutions that celebrate the state’s history and heritage. S&ME supported the State of Tennessee throughout the planning, design, and construction phases of both projects, providing a seamless and integrated suite of geotechnical and construction services.
Our team performed early geotechnical investigations that identified unstable fill material at the museum site, allowing us to develop tailored foundation recommendations to support the significant structural demands of the 137,000-square-foot museum and the adjacent 165,000-square-foot archives building. This early involvement helped inform design decisions and reduce project risk. During construction, S&ME provided materials testing and special inspections for the Library and Archives facility, a $125 million project led by Turner Construction.
With deep expertise and close coordination across project phases, S&ME helped deliver these high-profile civic facilities in support of the State’s long-term vision for a connected, culturally rich public space in the heart of downtown Nashville.