The Lincoln Highway Heritage Corridor (LLHC) is one of twelve special “Heritage Areas” in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, collectively known as “Heritage PA,” which is committed to improving operations, marketing, government relations and public advocacy for all of Pennsylvania’s Heritage Areas. The LHHC retained SGA to design an addition to its current headquarters located along the Lincoln Highway in Latrobe, located in the historic home of Governor, William Freame Johnston (1808 -1872). SGA was tasked with locating the addition to the historic structure to house the LHHC’s collection of significant roadside architecture, including a 1938 Jerry O’Mahony diner that had its origin on the Lincoln Highway in Westmoreland County, PA (Irwin). SGA’s design for the site addressed the need to provide a high-quality interpretative experience for the museum’s collections as well as ensure that the proposed addition is compatible with the historic aspects of the Johnston House and grounds. Extensive site improvements included vehicular circulation for large tour buses, parking lots, a campus-like pedestrian walkway system, multi-generational outdoor interpretative display and play areas and extensive green infrastructure improvements including bio-retention areas planted with native plant species. SGA assisted with coordination with the Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission on locating modern elements to address visual impacts to the historic Johnston House.
