Pentagon renovation project - Basement/Mezzanine - Brief Article

Program Manager, Jan, 2002

In the haste to construct the Pentagon in 1942, only two-fifths of the building were backfilled. An enormous cavern was built below the remaining three-fifths, creating what would become the basement and mezzanine levels of the Pentagon. These areas were never intended for occupation but became the home of the Air Force in 1947.

As in 1942, basement and mezzanine levels still exist under three-fifths of the Pentagon. This area has been divided into three segments. Segment 1 has been renovated and is now occupied by 1,200 Air Force personnel and the new DiLorenzo TRICARE Health Clinic. Segments 2 and 3 have been demolished and abated of all hazardous materials. The use of one design-build team will help to identify and plan work in the basement and mezzanine. Potentially, this will result in schedule and budget improvements.