Blog Post
ST. JOSEPH’S HOSPITAL
Empire Services • Jan 31, 2009
JANUARY, 2009
Initially the bid date given was for an immediate start, but the award bid date was delayed for three months. Due to additional delays with permits and utilities the work did not start for an additional two months with the owner’s request that Empire’s work was to be completed and demobilized based on the original start date given.
The project required four buildings to remain standing, one being the original historic chapel located centrally among all of the demolition. Additionally, three exterior walls and a tower of the original stone structure had to remain independently intact to be incorporated into to the new proposed structure. This posed challenges that only a well organized team could conquer. One of the walls to remain was attached to the chapel and needed steel shoring with foundations in place for the wall to stand alone prior to separating and complete demolition of the remainder of the building. The tower and two other walls also required steel shoring. To erect the steel shoring, a JD80 Excavator needed to be crane lifted over the four story building and placed into the courtyard to excavate for the footers. Next, the concrete for the foundations had to be pumped into the interior of the courtyard. Then the steel shoring was partially assembled in the rear parking lot and lifted over the building and placed into the courtyard using a 300 ton hydraulic rock crane. The four buildings to remain were completely gutted of all interior finishes and mechanical systems to make way for the future Reading Citadel School. At the rear of the property, the prestressed 65,000 sq ft concrete parking garage was demolished and the resulting concrete from the garage, footers and walls were crushed and stockpiled on site to be used as future backfill material. All other demolition debris was hauled away using dumpsters and trailers to our sister company Berks Transfer to be recycled.
With all eyes on Empire as the Prime Contractor the project was accomplished with a team of over fifty laborers, five operating engineers, four foremen and a superintendent. At one point in the job there were over seventy workers on site between the subcontractors and Empire’s work force.
Empire utilized the services of various subcontractors to handle different aspects of the project such as electrical disconnects, capping, and relocation to keep temporary power in the buildings to remain. A sprinkler contractor was hired to separate systems and maintain fire protection operation as long as possible as per city codes. It was also necessary to rework standpipe systems so that the buildings to remain would have fire protection until such time as the new sprinklers were installed. Asbestos removal was a major portion of this project with thousands of feet of pipe insulation in the walls and underground tunnels as well as numerous areas of sprayed on fireproofing and transite panels. Thanks to the expertise of the asbestos contractor and their staff on site they were able to keep ahead of the demolition process and assist in adhering to the schedule. Empire hired both a structural steel and a foundation contractor to help in the underpinning and stabilization of existing sandstone walls of the original hospital structure to be salvaged and incorporated back into the new Reading Citadel School. Elk Environmental, a sister company of Empire Wrecking was contracted to explore, remediate, and secure any underground cisterns discovered during excavation.
In addition to all the subcontract work on this project, Empire had to complete over 200,000 sq ft of interior demolition which included the general hospital area, operating room and two large mechanical rooms. This had to be done without the use of motorized equipment due to the allowable floor loads of the buildings.
Prior to demolition, the first step was the remediation of all asbestos containing materials. This process along with the other subcontractors had to be coordinated to assure the schedule of twenty six weeks. By aggressive planning Empire Wrecking was able to complete the project two weeks ahead of schedule. This was possible because the Empire Wrecking team accelerated the pace by mobilizing additional equipment, with four excavators simultaneously excavating, hammering concrete, munching walls, and pulverizing footers . At the height of the project there were five sub contractors involved with the project and five different locations being worked on at the same time.
The demolition presented serious challenges. This was not a simple task as all of the buildings interconnected with other buildings – some of which were to stay and some which were to be taken down and still others that were to have just the exterior walls remain. This project utilized an experienced work force at these areas of separation. The only building that stood alone was a precast concrete parking garage. This part of the project was completed with the use of two 450 JD Ultra High excavators; a 300 Ultra High excavator, and numerous other equipment with grapples, hammers and processor attachments.
Empire completed the job including all change orders and the coordinating of additional asbestos, underground tank removals and over excavation of contaminated material and disposal on schedule. As always, Empire Wrecking Co. proved they were up to the Challenge
Since leaving the site the general package for renovating the remaining buildings and construction of the new school has been awarded to a General Contractor with Empire going back to the site once again for the final fit out as a subcontractor. This will consist of minor demolition, exterior wall openings, roof removals, new floor openings etc.
In our pursuit of sustainable development, the importance of environmentally conscious practices in construction and demolition cannot be overstated. LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) certification has become a hallmark for sustainable buildings, promoting energy efficiency, water conservation, and healthier indoor environments. However, LEED doesn't just focus on construction; it also extends its principles to demolition processes. Let’s take a look at key LEED demolition requirements and how they contribute to a greener future.
Spring is here, and the start of a new construction season. Whether a new building or an addition, the sound of bulldozers and excavators fills the air. It’s also the time of year when golf courses open for the season in Pennsylvania. As golf courses prepare for the season, many undergo renovations. For a Philadelphia golf course, this was the case. Empire Services is helping with the expansion of their first tee by providing earthwork and site demolition. This golf course has deep roots in Pennsylvania. In fact, Pennsylvania has a rich golf history. The oldest golf course in continuous use in the United States is Foxburg Country Club in Clarion County. Foxburg Country Club was founded by Joseph Fox in 1887. According to local legend, Fox designed the course after The Old Course at St. Andrews and helped to spread the game across the state. In 1874, Fox went to England with the All-American Cricket team to play in a cricket tournament. One of the matches was in Edinburgh, Scotland. While in Scotland, he visited St. Andrew’s to watch some golf and became an instant fan of the sport. He had Old Tom Morris, the golf pro at St. Andrew’s, teach him the game and purchased golf clubs and “ gutta-percha ” balls (golf balls) to bring to America. Once home, Fox created an eight-hole course around his summer estates. He then created a more spacious five-hole course, which would become Foxburg Country Club. After the creation of Foxburg Country Club, golf courses began popping up all over Pennsylvania. One of them is a golf course in Philadelphia County, where Empire Services is assisting with the expansion of their first tee, which houses the pro shop and restaurant. The project began with the demolition of sidewalks and the concrete building pad. The earthwork began as soon as the debris was cleared away. Since the first tee was built on urban fill, there was a need for dynamic compaction caissons. Our crew prepared the area for them plus excavated new foundations. They will also install a storm sewer to accommodate the renovation. The last step will be paving the entry road. With the arrival of spring and the onset of construction season, we eagerly anticipate the completion of this project, poised to elevate the golfing experience at the course. Leveraging our team's expertise in earthwork and site demolition, we are laying the groundwork for the expansion and ushering in a new chapter in the golf course's heritage.
The transformation of Allentown Metal Works into a contemporary production facility is underway, facilitated by Marcon Properties, LLC. This property holds historical significance, tracing its roots back to the early 20th century when Samuel Traylor's Traylor Engineering laid its foundation in 1902. Over the years, it became synonymous with producing heavy-duty steel components pivotal in industries like mining, construction, and concrete. Also, it housed a Mack Trucks plant, further enriching its industrial heritage. With the help of Marcon Properties, LLC, the site is poised for a renaissance, finding renewed purpose under Eastern Exterior Wall Systems. In collaboration with Alvin H. Butz, Inc ., Empire Services has been at the forefront of this transformation since 2022. Empire Services initially engaged in demolition works as contracted by the Allentown Economic Development Corporation. Following a partial roof collapse in building A, they swiftly moved to demolish its top floor, setting the stage for subsequent redevelopment efforts. Later, with Alvin H. Butz, Inc., Empire Services spearheaded selective demolition and excavation tasks, laying the groundwork for the site's revitalization. Additionally, Empire Services helped budget, plan, and value-engineer the project with Alvin H. Butz, Inc. Taking It Down to Its Shell With the existing structures deemed stable, they repurposed existing materials and infrastructure. The renovation journey commenced in October 2022, initially focusing on the smaller building. By mid-January 2023, significant progress had been achieved, with the 50,000-square-foot structure stripped down to its shell. The renovation encompassed a comprehensive overhaul involving the removal of windows, roofing, mechanicals, utilities, and more. Structural integrity concerns necessitated the removal of numerous roof purlins, which had succumbed to wood deterioration during the site's decade-long hiatus. Mechanical equipment pits underwent meticulous clearance, paving the way for new concrete slabs atop crushed concrete and clean stone infills. Steel Demolition & Civil Work Empire Services' involvement extends beyond demolition to encompass intricate steel demolition and civil works. Recent engineering assessments identified sections of supporting steel beams, columns, and crane rails unfit for reuse. Employing precision torch-cutting techniques, Empire Services adeptly disassembled and transported these components. Additionally, they are spearheading the installation of a new storm sewer system featuring seven inlets, further enhancing the site's infrastructure. Having dedicated over a year to the Allentown Metal Works site, Empire Services' efforts have been instrumental in reshaping its landscape. Witnessing the transformation of this historical manufacturing site is a testament to the power of revitalization. As the site prepares to embrace its new role in manufacturing, it brings new opportunities and employment prospects, strengthening Allentown's industrial legacy.
It's hard to believe that spring is just around the corner. Empire Services completed a variety of demolition, site, and civil projects. Each one required a strategic solution to achieve successful results. Let’s take a look at some project highlights from the past few months.
When we envision trusses, our minds often conjure images of sturdy roofs, providing support and shelter. Yet, the roots of truss design lie not in roofing but in the strength of bridges. Truss bridges with their intricate network of triangular structures, have stood as testament to human ingenuity and engineering since the 19 th century. Initially conceived to span vast distances with minimal materials, truss bridges quickly gained popularity since they were economical to assemble. By harnessing the strength of triangles, these bridges distributed weight efficiently. The evolution of truss bridges is evidence of the ever-changing landscape of engineering. Many steel truss bridges have succumbed to the ravages of time and neglect. Thus, demolition is required, making way for newer, more efficient structures. This was the case for Empire Services’ bridge demolition project in Allentown, PA. The project presented numerous challenges, chief among them being working over water. With the bridge spanning a creek, ensuring the safety of the crew became paramount. Additional safety protocols were implemented, ensuring that each step of the demolition proceeded with caution and precision. The crew were in personnel lifts that kept them above the water while cutting up the bridge.
In the ever-changing world of manufacturing, the integration of automated systems is often crucial to enhancing efficiency and streamlining production processes. However, when the time comes to upgrade or replace these systems, the challenges of dismantling them without disrupting daily operations can be both complex and demanding. In a recent project, Empire Services undertook the task of dismantling a local truck body manufacturer's current automated system. Empire Services took on the responsibility of dismantling portions of the current automated lifting system, which is deeply embedded within the manufacturer's facility. This automated system, serving as the backbone of their manufacturing process, needed to operate seamlessly every day. To navigate this challenge, the project was divided into four phases, with the crucial stipulation that the system could only be removed during facility shutdowns to avoid disruptions to daily operations. The entire project is expected to be completed this fall. The Intricacies of the Automated System The complexity of the automated system lay not only in its integral role in the manufacturing process but also in its extensive structural integrity. The system, responsible for lifting and transporting truck bodies from station to station and situated on a multi-level mezzanine that winds its way throughout the facility, required a strategic dismantling approach. To execute the dismantling, the Empire Services team employed a combination of tools and equipment, including aerial lifts and various forklifts. The primary tool for the task was an acetylene torch, skillfully wielded to cut the steel structures into manageable pieces. The precision required in this process was heightened by the challenges posed by the confined space and the need to navigate around existing production equipment that could not be easily relocated. Navigating Space Constraints One of the primary hurdles faced by the team was the limited operating space. The structures earmarked for removal were situated in the heart of the manufacturing floor, surrounded by various production equipment that couldn't be moved. This necessitated a careful maneuver around, on top of, and beside the operational machinery, emphasizing the team's adaptability and precision in their approach. Working with steel structures at significant heights added an additional layer of complexity to the project. Cutting and lowering steel components required heightened safety measures, and the team's expertise ensured a meticulous and smooth process. The use of aerial lifts allowed for controlled access to elevated sections while forklifts ensured safe handling of these materials, showcasing the team's commitment to both efficiency and safety. The dismantling of an automated system within a manufacturing facility is no small feat, and the success of Empire Services in navigating the complexities of this project stands as a testament to our expertise. From strategic planning and phased implementation to adapting to space constraints and ensuring safety at every step, the precision dismantling of this automated system exemplifies the delicate balance required in such endeavors. As manufacturing technologies continue to evolve, the ability to efficiently upgrade or replace systems while minimizing disruptions remains a crucial skill, and Empire Services has showcased its expertise in executing this intricate balance of precision dismantling.
The vacant echo of an office space stripped bare often heralds a transformation in progress. While the sight may evoke curiosity, the reasons behind the removal of contents are varied and hold insights into the dynamic life cycle of commercial real estate. In cases where an office space resides within a building slated for renovation or demolition, questions loom regarding the fate of the contents and the duration of building services. This intricate process becomes time-consuming, dictated by the square footage at play. When the square footage is almost a million square feet, the removal of contents is best done by a team of professionals experienced in interior demolition .
We find ourselves at the end of another year. Where has the time gone? Empire Services completed a variety of demolition, site, and civil projects. Each one required a strategic solution to achieve successful results. Let’s take a look at some project highlights from this year.
Technology has played a pivotal role in transforming businesses since the advent of the first industrial revolution. Over the course of history, we have witnessed four industrial revolutions , each leaving an indelible mark on the way businesses operate. These revolutions have not only accelerated manufacturing processes but have also brought about significant changes in how products are stored, managed, and distributed. In the wake of the first industrial revolution, mechanized processes emerged, leading to the creation of new facilities to house products – the warehouse. As businesses evolved, some warehouses were transformed into multifunctional spaces that house offices, retail, and residential spaces. Those warehouses dedicated solely to storage underwent a modernization process, incorporating advanced automated systems to enhance efficiency in product storage and shipping. One sector that has particularly benefited from warehouse automation is grocery distribution. The demand for timely and accurate distribution of perishable goods has driven companies to invest in cutting-edge technology. Recently, Empire Services took on a significant project in Lancaster County, PA, working in collaboration with Hansen-Rice to automate a grocery distribution center. The project involved a comprehensive overhaul of the existing facility, necessitating the removal of pallet racking, conveyor systems, and utilities to make way for a state-of-the-art automated conveying system. Given the facility's round-the-clock operational schedule, especially during its busiest hours from 12 AM to 7 AM, the project was inherently time sensitive. The team at Empire Services strategically moved materials to lower elevations accessible by mechanical equipment, facilitating the efficient disassembly of rows of pallet racks. Once the pallet racks were dismantled, the focus shifted to removing conveyors and utilities, creating a blank canvas for the integration of the new automated system. This meticulous process ensured minimal disruption to the ongoing operations of the grocery distribution center while paving the way for enhanced efficiency and productivity. The evolution of technology has been instrumental in reshaping businesses and industries across the globe. From the first industrial revolution to the current era of advanced automation, each phase has left an indelible mark on how products are manufactured, stored, and distributed. The recent project undertaken by our team exemplifies how automation is revolutionizing the way we handle and distribute goods, paving the way for a more technologically advanced and efficient future. At Empire Services, we are experienced in dismantling various materials to make way for new technology or workspace. Contact us today to learn how beneficial our demolition services are to your project!
Fires in vacant commercial buildings are a constant problem in cities across the nation. Firefighters must contend with numerous challenges with each fire, including narrow streets, collapses, and bad weather. They must also deal with items left behind by a previous tenant. Sometimes an investigation is warranted when the items left behind require a unique disposal. These items complicate the demolition plan as well. This was the case with a recent fire in Reading, PA. A two-alarm fire broke out in a vacant factory building on South 9 th and Laurel Streets November 2 nd . The multi-story building was close to residential structures and housed items that required careful disposal. The City of Reading contracted Empire Services to perform a partial demolition. The 137-year-old structure was owned by Lincoln Chemical Company for almost 30 years. They mixed detergents used in manufacturing operations and left the items behind along with green bottle caps. Another previous tenant was the Reading Brewing Company , which operated in the structure for 90 years. Once the building was cleared by the Reading Fire and Police Departments, Met-Ed terminated the power lines allowing the demolition process to begin. We met with the Fire Marshal to determine our plan of action considering there were a few hot spots still burning. DVC (an Empire Group affiliate) transported our equipment and the demolition debris to a disposal facility. Starting from the east side of the building, we removed the collapsed roof and remnants of the fourth floor using one of our 95-foot UHD long reach excavators. Next, most of the third and second floors came down. This was to ensure the structural integrity of the building as well as the safety of the on-site workers and nearby residents. A skid loader was used to remove bricks from the streets, which were loaded into a DVC dump truck for disposal. Despite the hot spots, items left behind and a collapsed roof, Empire Services successfully completed the job. We wish to thank the Reading Fire and Police Departments for ensuring the job site was safe for our team. At Empire Services, we have the experience and equipment to provide efficient emergency demolition to a variety of structures, from buildings to silos. Contact us today to learn more about our demolition services!
