Metro Loft Management, the developer of a damaged Manhattan high-rise, announced plans to reconstruct 15 floors of the 35-story building at 235 East 42nd Street. This decision comes after sections of the former Pfizer headquarters buckled, leading to the evacuation of nearby buildings and the closure of several blocks near Grand Central Terminal. Emergency crews have been working to stabilize the structure, which sustained significant damage.
The incident has raised concerns about construction safety in Midtown Manhattan. While the developer has downplayed fears of a full collapse, the extensive reconstruction efforts underscore the severity of the structural issues. The building, which was being converted into residential units, previously served as Pfizer's global headquarters.
The ongoing stabilization efforts by emergency crews allowed for the reopening of nearby streets that had been closed due to safety concerns. The reconstruction project is expected to be a substantial undertaking, though specific financial details and timelines for completion were not immediately available.
