ROCHESTER, Wash.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Design·Build·Steel contractor R.F. Stearns, Inc. is pleased to announce the completion of the recent expansion to Lucky Eagle Casino and a new administration building for the Confederated Tribes of Chehalis Reservation. The modern 20,000 square-foot addition increases the slot floor-plan and provides a new bar area for customers. The new 27,000 square-foot administration office was built near the casino for executives and staff. Lucky Eagle Casino is considered one of the largest employers in the South Puget Sound area, staffing approximately 500 employees. At the recommendation of Aecon Buildings, Stearns partnered with the construction team and the engineer-of-record to manage the complete steel package, including design/assistance and detail drawings, fabrication and erection and an aggressive steel construction schedule. Concrete tilt-up wall panels provided the perimeter enclosure of both buildings and were placed prior to steel installation. Stearns worked with SAK Construction to modify the panels to allow for crane access inside the walls in order to erect the structural steel framing. The three-level administration building was erected from the roof down. The installation of the roof and third floor deck, plus the placement and curing of the concrete, locked the structure and made it self-supporting. This created a permanent diaphragm holding the structure square to allow removal of bracing and erection of the second floor steel. Stearns unique processes aided in eliminating challenges and contributed to early occupancy of the casino and administration building, as well as meeting the owner’s financial and performance-driven goals. Les Martin, Project Manager, Aecon Buildings stated; “To turn out a beautiful project like the Lucky Eagle Expansion in only 6 months was accomplished due to the entire project team working toward the same goal. We rely on seasoned contractors like R.F. Stearns and SAK Construction to keep up with our break-neck pace. R.F. Stearns’ customer service, communication, and expert assistance in the design process ensured timely delivery and erection of the structural steel system.” Fred Clingman, Project Manager, R.F. Stearns, Inc., affirmed; “It was a pleasure to work with Aecon Buildings and the entire design and construction team. Our close team collaboration ensured effective project continuity to provide the Owner with a successfully completed hybrid steel-framed casino addition and administration building.”
