On the rocky bluffs of Minnesota’s north shore sits Split Rock Lighthouse — an iconic attraction and National Historic Landmark. In partnership with Quinn Evans Architects, MSA is leading topographic survey, ADA improvement design, electrical/lighting engineering and trail improvement components of a multi-faceted project to prioritize accessibility, reestablish historic circulation routes and design new outdoor gathering and educational spaces.

The partnering organizations are working closely with the Minnesota Historical Society on design upgrades to this cherished lighthouse property, which was constructed between 1909-1910. Until 1961, the lighthouse served as a key navigational aid for small craft and Great Lakes freighters alike, and today, is one of the most visited state parks in Minnesota with an average annual visitation of 150,000 people.

MSA surveyors, civil engineers, electrical engineers and landscape architects are working to restore site lines and upgrade accessibility on the historic property. Specifically, MSA will be modifying existing concrete sidewalks around on-site dwellings to provide ADA-compliant pedestrian routes, adding new barrier-free routes throughout the site, restoring unneeded asphalt surface to natural grass lawn, designing electrical and energy-efficient lighting systems for outdoor walkways, and working with Quinn Evans to stabilize historical features and elements onsite. Work also includes a resource-conscious cut and fill plan to minimize archeological disturbance around the lighthouse building, historic residences, trails and gathering areas.

Once complete, the 25-acre Split Rock Lighthouse property will be thoughtfully restored and rehabilitated, with a renewed emphasis on the historic site’s narrative and improved capacity to be experienced by visitors of all ages and abilities. Construction will commence in the spring of 2023.