Hensel Phelps proudly celebrates a series of prestigious awards recognizing the outstanding achievements of four projects in Florida. Congratulations to all the project teams for their exceptional work and well-deserved recognition!
SOF Aircraft Maintenance Unit and Weapons Hangar Facility:
In the federal sector, the SOF Aircraft Maintenance Unit and Weapons Hangar Facility received the EIC Eagle Award in the $50–$100 Million Federal Government/Military category from the ABC North Florida Chapter. Additionally, it was nominated for Project of the Year, highlighting its outstanding achievements.
This $70 million design-bid-build project at Hurlburt Field, Florida, for the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers spans over 100,000 SF. It supports the C-130 Ghostrider aircraft while housing the 4th Special Operations Squadron. The scope includes a reinforced concrete structure with steel framing, HVAC, fire protection and communications systems, along with 24,000 SF of office space. The facility includes bridge cranes, a 400-hertz cord rail, fall protection and an explosion-proof room. The interior design reflects squadron colors, creating a personalized and cohesive space.
The facility features bridge cranes, a 400-hertz cord rail, fall protection and an explosion-proof room. The interior design reflects the squadron’s colors, creating a personalized and cohesive environment.
Dormitories Complex at Tyndall Air Force Base:
Further demonstrating excellence in federal construction, the Dormitories Complex at Tyndall Air Force Base has been honored with three awards:
- Award of Merit in the 2025 Best Projects in the Government/Public Building category – ENR Southeast
- Design-Build Project of the Year Award in the Federal, State, County and Municipal category – DBIA Florida Region
- EIC Eagle Award in the $50-$100 Million Federal Government/Military category – ABC North Florida Chapter
Awarded a $136 million design-build contract by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, the project delivered two modern five-story dormitories with 480 private rooms. Designed to improve the quality of life for unaccompanied airmen, the complex includes shared community spaces, theater and meeting rooms, kitchenettes and administrative areas. Site enhancements include expanded parking, upgraded infrastructure and advanced security systems. Click here to learn more about the Dormitories Complex at Tyndall Air Force Base.
How to Train Your Dragon – Isle of Berk:
The How to Train Your Dragon – Isle of Berk project soared to new heights, earning three major awards:
- Project of the Year – ABC Central Florida Chapter
- Excellence in Construction (EIC) Eagle Award in the Entertainment category – ABC Central Florida Chapter
- Best Project in Sports/Entertainment – ENR Texas & Southeast
This project brings the world of How to Train Your Dragon to life in the largest themed land within Universal’s new Epic Universe park. Spanning 15.5 acres and featuring 18 buildings, this immersive Viking village welcomes guests with towering statues and 30 dragons representing 17 species. Signature attractions include Hiccup’s Wing Gliders, a high-speed coaster; Dragon Racer’s Rally, a thrilling aerial ride; and Fyre Drill, an interactive boat adventure. Guests can dine at the Viking-themed Mead Hall and Spit Fyre Grill, enjoy live entertainment like The Untrainable Dragon show and explore themed retail shops and play areas such as the Viking Training Camp.
Chronos Tower, Meteor Astropub, Bar Zenith and Supporting Facilities:
The Chronos Tower, Meteor Astropub, Bar Zenith and Supporting Facilities project also earned recognition, receiving the EIC Award of Merit in the Entertainment category from the ABC Central Florida Chapter.
Serving as the grand entrance to Epic Universe, this project is anchored by the iconic Chronos Tower—an 80-foot celestial-themed structure adorned with over 100 stars and a 52-foot spinning element symbolizing cosmic alignment. Hensel Phelps led the structural, roofing and electrical work, including the tower’s intricate lighting and motion systems.
The entrance experience is further elevated by the Meteor Astropub, a 16,000 SF quick-service restaurant featuring dramatic lighting, a skylight, themed murals and a flying meteor centerpiece. The adjacent Bar Zenith offers a 1,600 SF outdoor space-punk bar with views of the Cosmos Fountain. Supporting infrastructure includes a restroom and a mechanical building that services both venues.
Both Epic Universe projects were honored at the 2025 EIC Awards Banquet and the ENR Regional Best Projects.
Congratulations to all the project teams for their exceptional work and well-deserved recognition!
