Crane Safety at the Sacred Heart School Demolition

Empire Services • September 14, 2021


For 115 years, the Sacred Heart School has been a landmark in Allentown, PA. Unfortunately, a devastating fire on June 10, 2020, destroyed it. The multi-alarm fire caused extensive damage to the roof and the supporting structure for the roof. Smoke and water damage was throughout the structure as well. Once the damage was assessed, the Diocese of Allentown concluded that the building would be demolished and not rebuilt. Empire Services was contracted by Stellar Construction to demolish the three-story building. The biggest part of the strategy involved the use of a crane, which involved two weeks of preparation leading up to the crane being on site. We used a 110-ton hydraulic crane subcontracted from Dickinson crane to remove the steel roof trusses. 

Crane Safety Protocols

The use of a crane requires crane safety protocols to be in place. At Empire Services, safety is our priority, not only for our employees, but also for our subcontractors, customers, and the community. For this project, a lift plan was done and vetted by I.B. Dickinson & Sons, Inc. It consisted of dry runs prior to actual lifts performed, site layout and pre-planning, on-site meetings to review the lift plan and crane set area, radio communication, hand signals, spotters on the ground and in a high reach. We also utilized guide ropes/tag lines with ground personnel guiding the trusses to the staging area on the ground.

The Demolition Process

With crane safety implemented, the demolition process could begin. The equipment chosen for the project also included a John Deere 450 excavator with long boom and rotating grapple, track loader, lull, and a 120-foot-high reach. The strategy of this demolition is to remove from highest to lowest, and finishing with the cleanup, stoning the top and filling the basement with clean fill. The process was started by removing the interior timber walls on the third floor. The walking bridge has been separated on the third floor from the adjacent school building, sealing off the opening. The piping was removed from the three-story structure. The removal of the fire-damaged roofing materials and timbers attached to the steel trusses came next. A few of the key cross timbers remain to provide lateral support for the 5,500-pound steel trusses until it is time to lift them off with the crane. 


To remove the trusses, the front façade of the building was removed by hand to matching elevations of the adjacent exterior walls. This provided clearance and a clear line of sight for the man lift and the crane to reach the steel trusses for safe removal. After the front façade was demolished by hand, bringing it down the same plane as the exterior walls, it provided the proper clearance for the 120-foot-high reach to rig and visually spot for the crane removal of the trusses. The high reach was used to keep the spotters out of the structure and in line of sight of the crane operator. The chimneys on the north and south walls of the structure will also be demolished by hand down to match existing exterior walls on either side of the building. 


The main challenge of the project is the limited staging area. The building is located on a busy, two-lane street and is very close to adjacent buildings, overhead power and communications lines and a guide wire for another utility pole. However, our crew has the experience to expertly work and maneuver equipment in tight spaces. Traffic control has been implemented to ensure vehicles can safely pass through the demolition area. Demolition currently continues to bring the building down to the ground while removing construction debris. The project is estimated to be completed next month.


Empire Services has provided emergency demolition services for Reading and the surrounding area for over 60 years. Our team has the experience and expertise to handle various equipment and to ensure the correct safety protocols are in place for a successful job. To learn more about Empire Services’ demolition services, contact us today! 

Transforming Underutilized Spaces at Governor Mifflin Middle School & High School

By Empire Services • July 15, 2025
At Empire Services, we specialize in transforming large, complex spaces - and few environments are more dynamic than today’s schools. We’re proud to take part in another school renovation in Berks County, PA, where we’re currently working on exciting renovation projects at Governor Mifflin Middle School and High School.

Celebrating 70 Years of Transformation: The Empire Group Timeline

By Empire Services • July 1, 2025
Ellen Ganime Not many people can say they’ve experienced the full arc of a company’s evolution in a single sitting; yet, I had the honor of doing just that while helping create a timeline for Empire Group’s 70th anniversary. What began as a modest demolition and excavation firm (Empire Wrecking) has grown into a regional powerhouse (Empire Group) with five thriving affiliates, forever changing the landscape of Reading, PA, and beyond. From Demolition to Utility Work It’s not just the Empire Wrecking (dba Empire Services) projects that are interesting—it’s also the affiliates ( Elk Environmental Services, DVC , DVUC , Empire Services, and Berks Transfer ) that were born out of necessity. Each one represents a solution to a challenge encountered on the job site. Over the years, these companies emerged organically, each one reinforcing the next while staying rooted in Empire Group’s foundational expertise. Seeing their formation laid out on the timeline, each connected to the Empire name, brings a swell of pride. Together, they form a tightly woven network that supports and enhances every project, expanding the company’s capabilities and impact. A Journey Through the Decades The timeline project is more than just compiling dates and milestones—it’s a journey through Empire Group’s living history. I had the pleasure of sitting down with former employees whose passion, dedication, and stories brought the company’s legacy to life. From dismantling a radio tower to demolishing a racetrack, their experiences painted a vivid picture of a company built on hard work, innovation, and camaraderie. Former employees Bob Nocera and Steve Beisswanger shared unforgettable stories about complex projects and the bonds formed on job sites as we pored over countless pictures. Listening to them reminisce, it was clear: Empire Group isn’t just about the projects—it’s about the people and shared experiences that have played a crucial role in the company’s development. A Legacy Etched in Steel and Stone What stood out most during the timeline creation was the scale and impact of Empire’s work. Old photographs showed the dramatic evolution of equipment and techniques—proof of how far the company has evolved. In many cases, Empire tackled projects so impressive in scale and complexity that they were featured in national publications, such as Demolition Magazine and Constructioneer, as well as many various location publications. More Than a Timeline—A Tribute This timeline became more than a historical record; it became a tribute to the people and the progress that have defined Empire Group for over seven decades. It’s a reminder of the company’s roots, its remarkable growth, and the enduring spirit that continues to drive it forward. As we celebrate this 70-year milestone, there’s a collective sense of pride in everything Empire Group has accomplished. From its humble beginnings to shaping skylines, the journey has been nothing short of inspiring. Here’s to 70 more years!
Front of Albright College's Gingrich Library with the facade down.

Albright's Gingrich Library Gets a 21st Century Makeover

By Empire Services • June 23, 2025
Empire Services is excited to play a key role in the transformation of Gingrich Library at Albright College in Reading, Pennsylvania. Constructed in 1964, Gingrich Library was once considered a modern structure. It has evolved over the decades to feature new technology and resources. Also, a fourth floor was added in 1977. This renovation will encapsulate today’s technology to create a unique learning facility. It will not only house the library but will also offer archives, a writing and tutoring center, and student disability services. Adding to the scope of work was an infrastructure issue; several areas of the building were compromised due to water infiltration causing concerning damage.

Empire Services Local Summer Projects: Demolition & Renovation Highlights

By Empire Services • June 5, 2025
As summer rolls in, Empire Services is hard at work across Southeastern Pennsylvania, delivering top-tier demolition and excavation services with precision, safety, and efficiency. Our team proudly supports public and private projects that create lasting impacts, including transforming local parks. Here's a look at some of the exciting projects we're tackling this season.

Empire Services Brings a Historic Facade Full Circle

By Empire Services • May 20, 2025
What began as a mission to preserve a piece of Reading’s architectural history ultimately came full circle for Empire Services. In March, the City of Reading contracted Empire Services to perform an emergency/exploratory partial demolition of a compromised roof structure located at 431 Penn Street. The building featured a distinctive façade, originally part of the Reading News Building constructed in 1912. That same façade had been taken down piece by piece and then carefully reinstalled in 1981 by Empire Services and Eshbach Brothers, ensuring its secure attachment to its structure. The initial goal of the partial demolition was to preserve the iconic storefront at all costs. In addition, Empire removed the remainder of the building—excluding a 60-foot section and the preserved façade, which were to remain intact. Upon further evaluation, the building was deemed unsafe and posed a threat to public safety. The building and the adjacent structure (433 Penn Street) were then demolished by Empire. In a symbolic gesture, the original stone block engraved with “The Reading News” was preserved. While the effort to save the façade ultimately ended with its removal, the story reflects Empire’s deep connection to the project—and the important role the company played in honoring, preserving, and responsibly concluding this chapter of the city’s architectural history.

A Complex Transformation of the Springfield Municipal Building in Delaware County, PA

By Empire Services • April 30, 2025
Older buildings often face the challenge of keeping up with modern needs, including new technologies, infrastructure, and modern amenities. While a structure may have been built with the latest construction methods and products when it was first completed, time inevitably takes its toll, leading to eventual updating. When this happens, building owners (or committees) must decide between complete demolition or renovation. In many cases, only specific sections of a building need to be demolished, while others are salvaged and integrated into the new design. One such project is the ongoing renovation of the Springfield Municipal Building in Delaware County, PA, which is undergoing a significant transformation. This project combines both renovation and demolition to create a modern facility that meets current township needs. A Modern Transformation: Springfield Municipal Building's Revamp Empire Services was contracted by SJ Thomas to provide building demolition for this unique project. The scope of the work included demolishing key sections of the building to make way for upgrades and additions. While the entire building will not be demolished, only a few sections of the mid-century structure will be removed. The centerpiece of the renovation, the center section, which includes a full basement, will remain. The demolished sections of the building housed essential municipal departments, including the police department and various municipal offices. This renovation project is especially significant for the police department, which has grown substantially over the decades, expanding from just 5 officers to 30 officers. The new, modern municipal complex will provide ample space for the growing police force while also preserving and renovating the existing spaces within the structure. A Delicate Demolition Process The demolition process for this project was executed with precision and care. Empire Services' team utilized a CAT 325 excavator to carefully dismantle the key sections, including the front façade. These sections were delicately hand separated from the remaining section, which preserved the integrity of the remaining structure. Additionally, specialized equipment, such as a lull lift and bobcat, was utilized to collect and move the debris to designated areas. From there, the debris was loaded onto DVC (an Empire Group affiliate) trailers to be transported to a local disposal facility, ensuring that the debris was disposed of safely and efficiently. As the Springfield Municipal Building in Delaware County undergoes its transformation, it serves as a prime example of how thoughtful renovation and demolition can revitalize aging structures to meet modern demands. The combination of preserving key areas and demolishing outdated sections allows for a facility that is functional, safe, and capable of adapting to future needs. Empire Services is proud to be part of this important project, providing expert demolition services that contribute to the long-term success of the renovation.

What's New this Spring at Empire Services

By Empire Services • April 24, 2025
Spring is in full swing, and Empire Services has wide a range of exciting projects across Pennsylvania. As a trusted provider of demolition and excavation services, we’re proud to support our clients with precision, safety, and a commitment to excellence. From educational institutions to municipal renovations and industrial work, here’s some project highlights.
A large white crane is in front of a brick building on Penn Street.

Precision Emergency Demolition: Preserving History at Penn Street

By Empire Services • March 24, 2025
Emergency demolition projects often come with unique challenges, but when historical preservation is involved, the stakes are even higher. At Empire Services, we specialize in tackling these complex situations with expertise and precision, ensuring that both safety and historical integrity are maintained. Our recent partial emergency demolition project on Penn Street in Reading, PA, is a perfect example of how we combine quick response times, specialized equipment, and skilled teamwork to protect valuable structures.

Transforming Learning Spaces: Interior Demolition at Renaissance Academy

By Empire Services • February 17, 2025
When it comes to school renovations, many districts and charter schools prefer to schedule these projects during the summer months. This ensures that students and faculty are not disrupted. However, there are instances where a renovation needs to happen during the school year due to a pressing need. Renaissance Academy in Montgomery County, PA, found itself in such a situation as it needed more space to accommodate its students. Empire Services is proud to be part of this transformation, providing expert interior demolition services to help Renaissance create the space they need to continue offering high-quality education.

Emergency Demolition: Protecting Your Property and Community When Disaster Strikes

By Empire Services • January 29, 2025
No one ever expects an emergency demolition situation—until it happens. Whether it’s a roof that suddenly caves in, walls that are c rumbling under the weight of age , or the aftermath of a fire or severe weather event, the need for emergency demolition can arise without warning. That’s why having a reliable, experienced demolition company ready to respond quickly is essential. At Empire Services, we understand the critical importance of emergency demolition, not just for removing dangerous structures, but also for protecting the people and property around them. Here’s why emergency demolition is so vital and how we can keep your property and community safe during emergencies. The Importance of Emergency Demolition Emergency demolition isn’t just about tearing down a building—it’s about protecting lives, preventing further damage, and restoring safety. It a crucial service that: Prevents Further Structural Damage A compromised building can continue to degrade, putting nearby structures at risk. Emergency demolition ensures that the damage doesn’t spread, protecting neighboring buildings and infrastructure. Protects Vehicles and Property If a building is on the verge of collapsing, vehicles parked nearby could be damaged or destroyed. Quick removal of the unstable structure can prevent damage to cars, trucks, or any other property within the immediate vicinity. Safeguards Utilities and Infrastructure Collapsing buildings can damage essential utilities like gas lines, water mains, or electrical systems. Emergency demolition minimizes the risk of utility disruptions and potential hazards like fires or flooding. Ensures Public Safety Above all, the most important reason for emergency demolition is to protect people. A dangerous building could pose a serious threat to pedestrians, workers, or anyone in the area. By swiftly removing it, we reduce the risk of injuries or worse. How Empire Services Can Help At Empire Services, we specialize in providing fast, efficient, and safe emergency demolition services. We are contracted by municipalities to demolish a variety of structures – day or night. Our team has demolished old factories, abandoned buildings, and fire-damaged structures. We utilize the latest equipment to safely dismantle and clear hazardous structures, no matter how complex or unstable. Our emergency demolition services include: Rapid assessment and response Safe and thorough demolition of unstable structures Protection of surrounding property, vehicles, and utilities Site clearing and debris removal Comprehensive safety measures to protect the public We’re Ready to Respond Emergencies are unpredictable, but with Empire Services, you have a partner you can rely on when disaster strikes. We pride ourselves on our ability to quickly assess the situation and take swift action, ensuring that the demolition process is done safely, efficiently, and with minimal disruption. If you’re dealing with a dangerous structure that needs immediate attention, don’t wait for further damage. Contact Empire Services today to discuss our emergency demolition service.
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