Construction could begin later this year on a modern welcome center that will be a part of the vast Spaceport America properties 20 miles to the southeast of Truth or Consequences.
The anticipated three-story building, measuring around 30,000 square feet, will house an auditorium, conference rooms, and offices, among other features.
What is being called the Spaceport Technology and Reception Center will be tasked with serving visitors, while also providing workspace for Spaceport America staff.
According to public documents, the new facility will also have a lounge and viewing areas on its 2nd and 3rd floors, while providing “modern, comfortable work and meeting spaces” for staff.
Sitting on some 18,000 acres, Spaceport America, the first purpose-built commercial spaceport in the world, was officially opened in the fall of 2011, with an initial visitors’ center opened nearly four years later.
According to reports, the existing visitors’ center has been confronted with several structural issues, including a leaky roof.
Spaceport America officials are also said to not be happy with the location of the current center, situated as it is behind the large aviation operations area.
According to Spaceport America documents, a design-build project delivery method will be used to build the new reception center.
Because previous structures at the spaceport have been designed to blend in with and pay homage to the “aesthetic harmony” of the surrounding desert terrain, it is expected that the new center will exhibit “exterior finishes that resemble the local landscape while creating a distinctive architecture that captures the bold and innovative spirit of Spaceport America.”
An exact schedule for when work on the new facility will begin has not yet been announced.
By Garry Boulard
