CATALYST/engineering
photos by James and Kathy Mangis
Remodeling the
Expressing Hometown Pride through Engineering
For those who frequent downtown Spokane, it’s hard to miss the current remodeling
activity of the old Macy’s building. The new building owners, Centennial Properties, and the renovation project team are readapting the historic 1914 building into a modern mixed-use retail and residential destination. The “M” is targeted for a Winter 2018 opening, but the community is already anticipating how the remodeled building will add more buzz to the downtown area with new retail shopping and modern living options. Just ask the local structural and civil engineers involved with the remodel design. Since the start of the project, the DCI Engineers Spokane team spent quality time transforming the local gem into its new version. It’s been a labor of love for principals Justin Cook (structural) and Wade Gelhausen (civil), and project managers Anthony Sorentino (structural) and Stephen Matkin (civil). They find their work with the M satisfying since its completion contributes to the future of their hometown—and being part of that legacy stokes their local pride. “The M is going to energize downtown by providing prime downtown and retail space,” says Anthony Sorentino. “It will extend the retail corridor and blend in nicely with the city’s new park expansion.” Residents like Sorentino easily envision how downtown Spokane can become more of a magnet destination with the addition of the M. The M’s street level retail will sustain the lively
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pedestrian activity already generated by area businesses, such as River Park Square. For those who like the convenience of living in town, the M’s residential units will be a modern rental option with the possibility of walking or biking to work and events. DCI Engineers partnered with Centennial Properties, NAC Architecture and Walker Construction for the M renovation project. During the current construction phase, these local teams meet regularly to discuss building efficiencies while refurbishing the M to last for future generations. “The project turnaround is very aggressive and that’s something we’re really good at,” says Justin Cook. “We’ve been fortunate to partner with NAC and Walker Construction