A community facility for the Apsaalooke (Crow) people, Crow Agency, Montana

Area & cost
35,000 sf 
$9.9M construction cost
$875,000 A/E fees

Completion
Start Date: 2010
End Date: 2011

Involvement
Co-design and Project Mgmt:
​Scott Moore y Medina
With BNIM

Services
Integrated Project Delivery Project Management 
Construction Documentation

Construction
LEED Platinum
Structural Insulated Panels
Cultural Expression
Natural materials
Smart site design and solar orientation
    

The Health & Wellness Center at the Little Big Horn College in Crow Agency, MT is a LEED Platinum multi-purpose community facility that is much more than a building on 4.5 acres of land. It represents hope to a community battling multiple challenges amidst widespread poverty, and sends a message that the Apsáalooke (Crow) Indians of Montana are capable and worthy of having world-class facilities to inspire new generations of their people to dream and play big for the future.

​This project was groundbreaking in many ways. It was the first documented use of an AIA Contract for Integrated Project Delivery that brought the A/E team, the Contractor team, and the Owner team onto a level playing field that allowed a rapid schedule to be met and minimized change orders. The project also creatively used multiple funding sources, including the creative implementation of New Market Tax Credits. Architect Scott Moore y Medina led the project management team and acted as a valuable connection to the Crow culture and teachings while at his former employer, BNIM. This allowed the A/E team to understand the values of the people as it translated into built form and included the art and traditions of the Crow in an atmosphere of trust, learning and accountability. 

Tears of joy were shed by College staff, employees as well as visitors at the grand opening of this facility. To those who had witnessed its design and construction, this was more than just a green building full of daylight and high-efficiency mechanical/ electrical systems. It was more than an example of the best practices in stormwater management and sustainable materials selection. This building represents a beautiful home for the community events, feeds, games, powwows and celebrations allowing the community to feel empowered, excited and full of a sense of pride. This project shows the transformative power of collaboration that respects and honors culture.