Modular Project: Holyoke Gas & Electric

The town has a hydroelectric dam, operated by Holyoke Gas & Electric, that produces 30 megawatts of power from the Connecticut River.

The 30 foot high by 1,000 foot long dam creates a problem for fish swimming upstream to spawn, so to solve that problem, Holyoke Gas & Electric lifts the fish from the lower part of the river to the upper section. The Robert E Barrett Fish way lifts 400,000 fish between the beginning of May and early June. 10,000 people visit annually to learn about the fish way process, and to see the fish lift in action.

BOXX Modular provided HG & E with a new 1,250 square-foot permanent modular building visitor center to replace a tent that used to welcome visitors. Custom built, the new building provides a welcoming, and comfortable learning environment for visitors, as well as a training area for Holyoke Gas & Electric employees. From families to school students on field trips, the visitor center supplies an astounding view of the dam and river, through the over-sized windows spanning the front of the building. Technology ready the building allows HG & E to use state-of-the-art resources to educate and inform those visiting the facility.

The modular building project included extensive site excavation, underground utility runs, concrete ramps with aluminum handrails, expansive custom awnings, and a specialized layout with custom interior and exterior finishes. With their new building HG & E can educate or train approximately 30 people at a time in a climate controlled environment, while providing access to a spectacular view of the Connecticut River.