Watts Constructors, LLC, of Honolulu has been awarded the $32.7 million contract to replace the Arizona Memorial visitor center, the Navy announced today.

Work is expected to begin by the end of the year. The project should be completed by September 2010, the Navy said.

The work includes the construction of new buildings to support exhibits, education, security, other offices, restroom and resting areas.

Renovation of the existing theater and demolition of the existing facility will follow after most of these buildings are done.

"We are pleased to work with the Navy to bring about much-needed changes to the shore-side visitor center," said Frank Hays, acting superintendent, USS Arizona Memorial, National Park Service. "It will enable us to provide an even better experience for our visitors by creating more exhibit and educational space, and a newly refurbished theater."

The work includes pile foundations, reinforced concrete floor slabs, steel joists and decking, flashing and sheet metal work, concrete masonry work, photovoltaic panels, a shade structure, air conditioning and fire protection.

Supporting work includes landscaping, pavements, connecting utilities, electrical and communication ducts, fencing and site improvements.

Seven competing proposals were received for the contract, the Defense Department said.