Agralite Electric Cooperative Headquarters

A 65,000 SF shell and interior construction for Agralite Electric Cooperative in Benson, MN

Fast Facts

  • 65,000 SF
  • Client: Agralite Electric Cooperative
  • Architect/Design Team: Mohagen Hansen
  • Engineer: Civil Site Group

Features

  • Shell and interior
  • Office space
  • Shop facility
Exterior view of a covered walkway entrance with orange-clad wood beams, dark stone facade, and a man walking beneath the canopy in evening light.

Project Goal

After powering Swift County for generations, Agralite needed a contractor to help bring its facilities into the next generation

When it was time to replace an aging facility, Agralite chose a design-assist approach to guide the development of its new headquarters.

Working alongside Mohagen Hansen Architecture & Interiors, Gardner delivered the full shell and interior, including office space and a complete shop facility.

Front facade of the Agralite Electric Cooperative building showing the illuminated "AGRALITE" sign, stone and wood paneling, and glass entrance.
Aerial view of the Agralite Electric Cooperative headquarters under construction, surrounded by farmland, with parking lot and solar panels visible.

Keeping Operations Running

The biggest constraint was simple: Agralite could not go dark for a single day

Through careful project phasing and clear communication at every stage, we kept employees working and the site safe throughout construction. Operational continuity was never compromised.

Interior of a vehicle service bay with concrete block walls, a large overhead door numbered "20," storage shelving, and a forklift in motion.
Interior of a truck garage with utility trucks, including a bucket truck with a Terex crane, parked near storage shelves and an open bay door.

Partnerships

A collaborative process focused on the community

Using a design-assist approach, we collaborated closely with all partners to refine construction documents and deliver an efficient, precise build.

We also honored Agralite's commitment to local business by maximizing the use of local contractors and suppliers, keeping construction dollars in the Benson community.

From day one, the team made us feel like true partners in the design process. The result is a space that not only reflects who we are but also functions beautifully for our needs. It was a true collaboration from start to finish."

Jenny Stryhn, General Manager/CEO, Agralite Electric Cooperative
Hallway with frosted glass doors printed with cooperative principles, a meeting room visible through the glass, and a man walking through.
Office corridor with wood ceiling beams, a seating area with green and white chairs, and a woman seated using her phone.
Three employees reviewing an interactive outage map displayed on a large wall-mounted screen in an office setting.

Recognition

Finance & Commerce Top Project of 2025

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