The Mercury Modernization Program is a cornerstone of the Nevada National Security Sites’s (NNSS) comprehensive modernization strategy. Now entering phase two of the project portfolio, the National Nuclear Security Administration (NNSA) and NNSS leaders recognized the completion of phase one, representing a decade of innovation, planning, execution and dedication come to life.
Phase I complete
The recognition event for Mercury Modernization phase one took place during Deep Dive, a week-long forum in which NNSA leaders attend master asset plan briefings, review infrastructure investments and tour mission critical projects across the NNSS.
Phase I included the construction of three new buildings, along with utility and campus upgrades to improve functionality, efficiency and safety. Two facilities constructed in the first phase leveraged the highly efficient Standardized Acquisition and Recapitalization (STAR) design initiative, a replicable footprint. That STAR design has since become a model for other modernization projects across the Department of Energy.
“This is a great physical example of what partnership and the spirit of the NNSS looks like,” said Nevada Field Office Manager Betty Huck. “We’re taking this concept and all of the lessons learned and implementing it across the Site so we can take care of our people and continue executing our mission to the highest standards.”
Phase II begins
Phase II builds on the modernization accomplished in Phase I by continuing the transition of the workforce out of legacy facilities and into modern, efficient spaces, while also providing new amenities and services for the broader NNSS workforce. It leverages the DOE ProtoSTAR building design and a new high-bay prototype — the first deployed in Mercury. Both these footprints are designed with replicability, expandability and flexibility in mind. New buildings, including a cafeteria and security, training, storage and administrative spaces, will support essential Site services and be more centrally located.
The first two facilities in the new phase are on track to be completed in fiscal year 2028.
“The NNSS has pioneered and spearheaded groundbreaking ideas and initiatives here in Mercury,” said NNSA Associate Administrator for the Office of Infrastructure Jessica Kunkle. “We look forward to what Phase II will bring so we can continue making history.”