Preserving a Historic Landmark
Shannon Construction (ShanCon) was honored to contribute to the preservation of an important historic structure through the North Portico Restoration project at the National Emergency Training Center (NETC) in Emmitsburg, Maryland. The NETC campus has deep historical roots—originally part of St. Joseph’s College, founded in 1809 by Saint Elizabeth Ann Seton—and today serves as a FEMA training facility where first responders from across the United States prepare for emergency response and disaster management.
This project required a thoughtful approach that balanced historic preservation with modern construction techniques, ensuring the building’s architectural integrity was maintained while improving the durability and performance of key structural elements.
Understanding the Challenge
The North Portico had experienced deterioration over time due to environmental exposure and aging materials. Key structural and architectural components required careful evaluation and restoration to maintain both structural safety and historical authenticity.
Because the portico is a defining architectural feature of the building, restoration efforts needed to be performed with precision to ensure the finished work blended seamlessly with the original structure. In addition, the surrounding patio and entrance areas required modernization to improve accessibility, drainage, and long-term durability while maintaining the site’s historic aesthetic.
To accomplish this, ShanCon collaborated closely with Cenkner Engineering Associates and GC Kian International, Inc. to develop a restoration plan that respected the building’s historic character while incorporating modern infrastructure improvements.
Scope of Work
The project involved a comprehensive restoration and site improvement effort that included structural repairs,
historic material replacement, and infrastructure upgrades. Key components of the work included:
Portico Restoration
- Careful removal and restoration of existing granite portico elements
- Installation of new stonework where materials were damaged beyond repair
- Replacement of entrance tiles with historically similar materials to maintain the original aesthetic
Patio Reconstruction and Site Improvements
- Removal and replacement of the existing concrete patio system
- Installation of new granite pavers to complement the historic architecture
- Reconstruction of the patio with upgraded subgrade and structural support
Radiant Heating Installation
To improve winter safety and long-term usability of the entrance plaza, the project included installation of a radiant heating system beneath the outdoor patio and ramp. This system helps prevent snow and ice
accumulation while reducing the need for manual snow removal.
Drainage and Infrastructure Upgrades
ShanCon crews upgraded the site’s drainage system to improve water management and extend the lifespan of the surrounding surfaces. Work included:
- Removal and replacement of existing drainage piping
- Installation of new piping to improve water flow and system efficiency
- Updated drainage layout integrated within the new patio structure
Accessibility Improvements
The project also included updates to ensure accessibility while maintaining the historic character of the building entrance. Improvements included reconstruction of the entrance ramp and integration of heating systems beneath the ramp surface.
Location
Emmitsburg, MD
Owner/Client
Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA)
Engineer
Cenkner Engineering Associates
General Contractor
Kian International, Inc.
Market
Federal / Historic Restoration
Services
Concrete Restoration, Masonry Restoration, Patio Reconstruction, Drainage Improvements
Execution and Coordination
Because the NETC campus remains an active federal training facility, construction activities required careful
coordination to minimize disruption to daily operations. The ShanCon team worked closely with project partners and
facility personnel to maintain safe access routes and ensure that construction activities were performed efficiently
and responsibly.
Throughout the project, the team prioritized:
- Preservation of historic architectural details
- Safety for campus occupants and visitors
- Durable construction methods designed for long-term performance
Project Outcome
The North Portico Restoration successfully revitalized one of the campus’s most recognizable architectural features
while improving the surrounding infrastructure and functionality of the entrance area.
The restored portico now reflects the historic craftsmanship of the original structure, while the
upgraded patio, heating systems, and drainage infrastructure provide modern performance and long-term durability.
Projects like this demonstrate ShanCon’s commitment to breathing new life into historic structures while preserving their legacy for future generations.