Oracle Team USA has officially moved into the recently refurbished Building #9 in Dockyard.

The building, which had been badly damaged by hurricanes, now houses the team’s gym, sail loft and offices after months of work by a number of local contractors.

The renovations included roof and window repairs, fixing water damage and fitting the building with the necessary plumbing, electrical, flooring and fire safety systems.

However the original architecture and maritime features have been maintained in an effort to preserve the historical value of the building.

ACBDA CEO Mike Winfield said: “As with the other work being done in Dockyard for the 35th America’s Cup Match presented by Louis Vuitton, the restoration of Building #9 has been carried out by a large number of local subcontractors.

“Of course in the restoration of a historic building like this there is the double benefit of providing economic opportunity to Bermudian businesses and at the same time creating a legacy benefit to Bermuda as a whole.”

Oracle Team USA operations manager Ian Stewart meanwhile said: “It’s a really nice spacious facility and it’s pretty unique. We feel privileged to be here and hopefully we’ll be leaving behind something of value for the people of Bermuda.”

Wedco general manager Andrew Dias said that the coming 35th America’s Cup has provided a boost to existing plans to upgrade the buildings in Dockyard.

“The beauty of the America’s Cup is that we had an instant tenant and we’ve been able to accelerate the process of restoring this and other buildings,” he said.

“The work that has been done, both on the exterior and the interior, is second-to-none. I think it is something that all Bermudians will be able to take pride in.”