What's Happening?
The McCarthy Building Companies, in collaboration with HITT Construction, has completed the construction of the Next NGA West, a $1.7 billion federal project in St. Louis. This new facility serves as the headquarters
for the National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency (NGA), a combat support agency within the U.S. Department of War, which provides mapping intelligence to military and policymakers. The project, which spans 97 acres, is the largest federal investment in St. Louis's history. It includes a 700,000-square-foot office building, two multi-level parking garages, a secure visitor center, a delivery inspection facility, and multiple secured access points. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Kansas City District, oversaw the design and construction, ensuring the campus meets advanced safety, security, and sustainability standards. The project began in 2014 with an environmental impact statement, and site logistics work started in 2019.
Why It's Important?
The completion of the Next NGA West campus marks a significant federal investment in St. Louis, potentially boosting the local economy and job market. With over 3,000 local employees, the NGA's presence strengthens the city's role in national security and intelligence. The project reflects a successful collaboration between federal agencies, the design-build team, and the local community, showcasing the potential for large-scale federal projects to drive regional development. Additionally, the advanced technology and sustainability features of the campus set a benchmark for future government infrastructure projects.
What's Next?
The new NGA campus will replace the agency's current facility south of downtown St. Louis, enhancing its operational capabilities. The transition to the new headquarters is expected to streamline NGA's operations and improve its support to military and policymakers. The successful completion of this project may encourage further federal investments in the region, potentially leading to more development projects and economic growth. Stakeholders, including local government and businesses, may explore opportunities to leverage this development for further regional advancements.
