The National Eagle Center is growing to include three historic buildings in downtown Wabasha.

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STAKES

The National Eagle Center is a world-class interpretive center located on the banks of the Mississippi River in Wabasha, Minnesota. State bond funding was a critical step in their transformational expansion. Phase 1 included renovations to the 2007 building and site, including more exhibit space, learning experiences, and additional live eagles. The upcoming Phase 2 will include renovations to several historic buildings in Wabasha’s Historic District, which is listed in the National Register of Historic Places (NRHP), as well as a new infill building.

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OUTCOMES

New History worked with the ownership and design team to assess the viability of using state and federal historic tax credits for renovations to the historic buildings. The assessment included design guidelines, financial analysis of the tax credits, and recommendations for integrating the tax credits with other funding sources, such as bond funds and philanthropy. Then, during the Predesign phase, New History worked with the design team to integrate preservation standards and regulatory reviews into the design process.