Prioritizing Community Upgrades and Support Through Strategic Project Partnerships

The strengths that keep communities evolving and thriving are deeply rooted in the resources that support them. Whether it’s local hospitals and clinics or community centers and first responders, these community pillars keep families healthy, happy and safe. At McKinstry, we are led by our values, none more so than putting people first. It is always our privilege to partner with clients whose facilities are focused on care and community well-being.

Here are some of the projects we’ve shared in 2025 whose purpose is to serve their communities and are excelling at doing so.

Mīyō Pimātisiwinkamik Youth Center

The Mīyō Pimātisiwinkamik (“Good Life Lodge”) Youth Center will transform the Rocky Boy’s Reservation by creating a safe, culturally rich space where the Chippewa Cree youth can thrive. Driven by community input and built in partnership with the Rocky Boy Health Center, McKinstry, Dick Anderson Construction and Architecture 118, the center will provide access to preventive healthcare, wellness education and cultural learning rooted in language and tradition. Beyond serving immediate health and wellness needs, this project will invest in the community’s future through sustainable building systems and apprenticeship opportunities that give local students hands-on experience in the trades. Through prioritizing the voices of young people and cultural pride, the center is strengthening the foundation for healthier, more confident generations to come.

“This project is a great opportunity — you don’t always get to do projects that have such a direct and positive impact on the lives of the people who use it every day. We are helping to create a space that the community can be proud of. It’s amazing to be part of a project like this where you can really give back and make a noticeable impact on people’s lives.” – Jonathan Franzese, Senior Associate at McKinstry

UW Medicine Center for Behavioral Health & Learning

The University of Washington’s new Center for Behavioral Health & Learning expands access to compassionate, comprehensive care for patients while training the next generation of behavioral health providers. Built in partnership with the State of Washington, McKinstry and project partners, the $244 million facility adds 150 patient rooms and modern clinical spaces designed for safety, efficiency and sustainability. With resilient infrastructure and systems built to withstand disruptions, the facility ensures uninterrupted care for vulnerable patients.

Three Rivers Independent School District

McKinstry’s partnership with Three Rivers Independent School District is improving educational opportunities and community pride by modernizing key school facilities and programs. The project contained phased upgrades including HVAC and lighting improvements, roof and gym repairs and a comprehensive remodel of the Agriculture Science Shop. These upgrades allowed students to gain access to safe, functional spaces that support hands-on learning and career-ready skills, particularly in agriculture and metalwork. By prioritizing projects that directly benefit students and reflect community values, McKinstry helps TRISD deliver quality education while maximizing the impact of public funding. This work strengthens the district’s capacity to empower students, foster practical skills, and build trust between schools and the local community, creating lasting benefits for future generations.

“Three Rivers is a strong community with a mission to invest in its youth. With a majority of students engaged in agricultural education, this project underscored how purposeful infrastructure can nurture the next generation’s skills, sustain local heritage and equip students for evolving industries.” – Gabriela Fierro, Senior Account Executive at McKinstry

Portland Parks and Recreation

McKinstry’s work with Portland Parks & Recreation is enhancing safety, comfort and accessibility across the city’s parks and community centers. By upgrading pathway lighting in 14 parks with nearly 300 energy-efficient LED poles and advanced control systems, the project improves visibility while reducing energy use and preserving historical aesthetics. HVAC retrofits and air conditioning installations at neighborhood community centers provide comfortable, reliable spaces for fitness, learning and additional events. Roof repairs and infrastructure improvements ensure long-term functionality and safety for residents. Together, these upgrades strengthen Portland’s public spaces, creating welcoming, sustainable environments that benefit the community for years to come.

Chicago Fire Department

McKinstry’s work with the Chicago Fire Department is strengthening public safety by ensuring the city’s 101 fire facilities are well-maintained, efficient and resilient. Through detailed facility condition assessments, 360-degree imaging, and integration of over 8,000 assets into the Reveal™ capital planning platform, CFD now has a centralized, data-rich view to make informed decisions about maintenance and upgrades. This proactive approach enhances the department’s ability to respond to emergencies effectively while maximizing long-term infrastructure performance. By combining technology, expertise, and strategic planning, the project empowers CFD to provide safer, more reliable services for the people of Chicago.

“The Chicago Fire Department is crucial to the city and the community; understanding the conditions of their facilities allows them to plan ahead for years to come and keep their community members safe and healthy. The fire houses aren’t just places of work for CFD, but second homes.” – Tim McAvoy, Business Development Manager at McKinstry

Whatcom County

McKinstry partnered with Whatcom County to advance clean transportation and support the county’s Climate Action Plan, creating a roadmap for electrifying government fleet vehicles and installing EV charging infrastructure. By assessing 162 fleet vehicles across four county sites, the feasibility study provides cost-effective strategies that could save millions in fuel costs while reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Recommendations prioritize sustainability, operational efficiency, and alignment with federal incentives, enabling the county to meet Washington state’s electrification and climate resilience goals. This project empowers the community by promoting cleaner air, energy savings and long-term environmental stewardship.