About the Project

In 2010, a corner of the pier supporting the Cromwell Recreation Center suddenly collapsed, sending a portion of the building crashing into the water and creating a structural hazard. The 1938 building was unoccupied at the time, awaiting the start of a building renovation project. LiRo was contacted by NYCDDC, and immediately evaluated the situation and dispatched the engineers and contractors necessary to Safe-Off and stabilize the structure. Due to the nature of the collapse engineers were required from many disciplines. LiRo coordinated work with multiple parties to handle partial building demolition, harbor cleanup, air monitoring and dust control, sample testing, asbestos removal, waste hauling and scheduling of activity between the NYCDDC, the FDNY, and marine and land demolition crews.

Project Challenges & Solutions

Because this site is a long waterfront pier, limited adjacent space for maneuvering equipment made work operations very challenging. In addition, since the site is located on a dead end street serving a multi-story apartment building, LiRo developed a detailed traffic control plan in order to maintain sufficient area for debris removal and to provide safe public access to the apartment building.

Outcome

Following completion of the demolition and final clean-up work, LiRo Architects designed a metal panel enclosure system for the remaining structure. The system was designed to be installed without the use of cranes and barges to minimize installation costs.