The Hennepin County Government Center, a 24-story office building in downtown Minneapolis, features two towers connected by catwalk bridges, forming a dramatic glass-enclosed atrium. Home to the county’s courts, attorney offices, law library, and various administrative services, the building has stood since 1977—until recently, with its original windows still intact.
In 2023, the county launched the Window Replacement Project to modernize the façade, replacing 2,244 lineal feet of glass across both towers. Phase two of the project focused on the atrium’s north and south ends, involving the removal and replacement of 44,000 square feet of glass—728 individual pieces weighing a combined 128.8 tons.
A Game-Changer: Hydro Mobile Lift vs. Traditional Scaffolding
Unlike the earlier phase, which primarily focused on interior access, this stage required exterior installation. Nearly a year before the bid package was released, our team began collaborating with subcontractors and on-site engineers to identify the safest, most efficient approach.
The result? A bold recommendation to use a hydro mobile lift instead of traditional scaffolding—a decision that transformed the project.
Why the Hydro Mobile Lift?
- Enhanced Safety: Workers remain inside the lift throughout the day, with access to essential amenities including a port-a-potty, AED/emergency kit, and heated enclosures during winter. Tools were securely tethered, dramatically reducing fall risks.
- Boosted Efficiency: The lift’s mobility allowed crews to remove and recycle glass daily, streamlining operations and reducing downtime.
Additional Project Innovations
- Bird-Friendly Glass: The new bronze glass features patterned treatments up to the 6th floor, helping prevent bird collisions and supporting sustainability goals.
- Sustainable Recycling: Removed glass was sent to a processing facility where it was ground and reused—turning waste into a resource.
- Future-Proofing: Our team coordinated the installation of 28 roof davits by Engineered Supply, enabling safer exterior maintenance for years to come.
By prioritizing safety, sustainability, and innovation, the Hennepin County Government Center project didn’t just replace windows—it redefined how complex urban renovations can be approached.