“They are places critical to the quality of life in our communities. As core community institutions, they have a unique opportunity to fulfill a diverse range of needs. The History Colorado Center will provide just that kind of anchor,” he said.

“Hensel Phelps is honored to be a part of the collaborative team that has made the design and construction of the History Colorado Center an effortless and exciting project,” said Jerry L. Morgensen, chairman emeritus, Hensel Phelps Construction Co. “The opportunity to create this new home to archive and document Colorado history has additional meaning for the Hensel Phelps family as we embark on celebrating our 75th year as a Colorado contractor.”

Morgensen said the History Colorado Center project has allowed Hensel Phelps to deliver on its commitment to the local market by creating construction opportunities for the local workforce and small business enterprises. Companies with local offices performed more than 90% of the work. “We are proud of the quality and craftsmanship delivered by the construction workers from Colorado,” he said.

History Colorado Center exhibitions will open in three phases over the course of the next three years. The museum will include a terrazzo floor map of the state with a storytelling time machine, highly interactive exhibits that feature activities such as virtual rides in a Model T, a descent into a Silverton hard rock mine and a jump off the world’s first ski jump in Steamboat Springs.