Overview
New York City was severely affected by Superstorm Sandy, destroying not only housing but causing great damage to the City’s infrastructure. LiRo provided resident engineering inspection services for 12 movable bridges that sustained major damage due to the impact of Sandy. LiRo oversaw the repairs of the electrical and mechanical systems at the following 12 movable bridges for this emergency work: 207th Street over Harlem River (swing bridge); 145th Street over Harlem River (swing bridge); Macombs Dam Bridge over Harlem River (swing bridge); Madison Avenue over Harlem River (swing bridge); Third Avenue over Harlem River (swing bridge); Ninth Street over Gowanus Canal (vertical lift bridge); Carroll Street over Gowanus Canal (retractable bridge); Third Street over Gowanus Canal (two-leaf bascule bridge); Union Street over Gowanus Canal (two-leaf bascule bridge, this bridge was eventually removed from the contract); Grand Street over Newtown Creek (swing bridge); Borden Avenue over Dutch Kills (retractable bridge); and Hunters Point Avenue over Dutch Kills (one-leaf bascule bridge).
About the Project
LiRo’s oversight of major construction operations included:
- Replacement work consisting of submarine power and communication cables beneath the river bed, which included removal and remediation of contaminated materials; mechanical systems including motors, hoists, span locks, and cable reels; braking systems and structural steel supports; and HVAC components in the control houses.
- Rehabilitation work consisting of cleaning and lubricating mechanical components, including rack and pinions, sheaves, bearings, and truck assemblies.
- Installation work consisting of elevated structural steel service platforms and relocation of electric and mechanical components atop these platforms; new flood walls and pumping systems; new navigation light systems; and new electric panels, generators, and power distribution systems.
- Coordination efforts with NYCDOT Maintenance Unit and multiple agencies allowing for proper access and permitting of work as well as managing work orders for incidental repairs due to unforeseen site conditions.
