As you know, a parking structure on Ann Street near our New York City Campus suffered a partial collapse yesterday afternoon. Beginning today, the City will start a ‘round the clock’ operation of extracting vehicles from the collapse and performing controlled demolition on the parking structure.
Please be advised that if you are near the site, you may hear noises or experience rumbling vibrations as the City completes its work. NYC officials have confirmed that it is safe to be in the general area.
Here’s is what you need to know following yesterday’s emergency event:
SAFETY ON CAMPUS
- The NYC Department of Buildings and our team of structural engineers have deemed that 161 William and 33 Beekman are safe and structurally sound.
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The NYC Department of Environmental Protection is monitoring the air quality through air quality monitoring stations set up at 33 Beekman, 161 William, and in the surrounding area. They have not observed any asbestos in the air. They have advised there will be dust particles in the air during demolition, and windows should be kept closed in the area.
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The NYC Department of Buildings and Office of Emergency Management’s clean-up will begin with the removal of cars from the building using a crane, followed by a controlled demolition of the structure. The parking garage structure may continue to collapse during demolition and the vibrations could be felt within the surrounding buildings.
- Pace is closely monitoring this situation.
161 WILLIAM STREET
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161 William Street will be closed for the remainder of the week. Our building is sound and has been cleared by experts for occupancy. However, due to potential disruption caused by noise from the nearby demolition, the building will remain closed.
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This decision was made out of an abundance of caution, and to ensure quality study and work conditions. It is not related to structural or safety issues.
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As soon as we are able to facilitate it, we will make arrangements for faculty and staff to retrieve items from the building.
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The Provost’s Office will be communicating directly with faculty later today regarding room assignments and space issues.
- Students, please stay in contact with your faculty; faculty and staff, please stay in contact with your department chairs and supervisors.
33 BEEKMAN
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Residential students were allowed to return to their rooms last night after the building was cleared for occupancy by the New York City Department of Buildings and independent structural engineer consultants to verify safety.
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The NYC Department of Buildings has posted a sign on the entrance of 33 Beekman indicating a partial vacating of the building. The building is safe, however five residential rooms on the south facade of the third floor and the rooms below have been taken off-line for minor facade work as an extra precaution during the parking garage demolition.
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Residential Life and Housing Operations will be emailing residents of 33 Beekman later today with details regarding laundry service accommodations, temporary closures of common lounges, and other pertinent information. It’s important that residential students continue to check their Pace email.
