Ellis Island Museum

SBI is providing technical and leadership solutions to SOLEIF for the reimagining of the Ellis Island National Museum, an iconic portal to the great American immigration story. Located in the original Ellis Island Main Immigration Building, the Ellis Island Museum was created over thirty years ago to tell the stories of those who came through this gateway in search of a better life. In recent years, SOLEIF sought the reimagining of the Ellis Island Museum to provide a broader, more culturally inclusive history of American immigration and bring the narrative up to the present day. The bold renovation project involves three floors of the museum and includes enhancements that integrate modern technology and redesigned exhibit spaces; improved visitor circulation and experiences; new exhibit interactives and signage; and a modernized theater. Critical systems will be addressed to prioritize visitor safety, sustainability and comfort, including upgrades to heating and air conditioning, electrical and mechanical systems, and life/safety systems. Visitors will enjoy seamless new Wi-Fi throughout the museum, a new lounge seating area, new facilities and a new flow through the museum while keeping the historical significance intact. To bring the reimagining of the Ellis Island Museum to life, SBI Consultants is providing SOLEIF with a wide range of technical and leadership solutions that include cost engineering, owner advisory services, and project oversight. SBI is closely coordinating with SOLEIF and the project team throughout the entire arc of the project, beginning with feasibility and preconstruction and continuing through construction and closeout. At the project’s inception, SBI performed independent cost estimates and project phasing plans to help guide OLEIF through design development, procurement and fundraising efforts. During design and preconstruction, SBI identified and summarized project parameters to assist in pricing negotiations, established key milestone parameters, and closely worked with contractors and the project team. Through every project phase, SBI is leveraging its experience, knowledge, and advanced research methods to maximize efficiency and reduce costs. Now, with construction underway, SBI continues to provide SOLEIF with essential cost engineering and project oversight services to effectively control the project scope, schedule, and cost. Expected to be completed in 2026, the newly reimagined Ellis Island Museum will achieve its goal to educate, inspire and spark unforgettable encounters with history, securing its place as a singular representation of our cultural identity.