WES’s scope for this project was constructing footings, benches, pavers, and lighting in the plaza that surrounds the 66,000-lb bronze sculpture.

The sculpture, called ‘The Embrace’ is designed by artist Hank Willis Thomas and is meant to honor the relationship between Martin Luther King Jr. and his wife Coretta Scott King. The team ran into a significant challenge with an unanticipated 30” water main running directly through the planned plaza. WES presented the option of moving the entire site slightly to avoid the water main and save the cost of relocating it. As a result of immense teamwork, the memorial was completed on-schedule in time for MLK Day ceremonies.