October 5, 2023
To the Pace New York City Community:
This is an update on the safety status at 161 William Street as demolition work continues on the adjacent Ann Street parking structure.

VIBRATIONS AND STRUCTURAL SAFETY: We’re aware that there was an increase in vibrations yesterday. In response to concerns, we asked our third-party structural engineering firm to review the vibration monitoring equipment and crack gauges they have installed on the building. Readings confirm that the safe vibration threshold has not been exceeded and that there was no movement on the crack gauges. The engineer states that the building remains structurally stable. You can read the new report within the FAQ section of our dedicated 161 William Street page.

DEMOLITION NEARING COMPLETION: The NYC Department of Buildings has informed us that demolition work on the parking structure is nearing its end and should be complete by mid-month (although work to remove debris will continue beyond that point). We were also advised high levels of noise or vibration may occasionally be expected in this final stage of demolition. We will continue to monitor the situation to ensure safety.

OSHA COMPLAINT: Last week we notified you of a complaint filed with the federal Occupational Safety and Health Administration of an alleged workplace hazard at 161 William Street. Yesterday we received notification from OSHA that our response is satisfactory and no further action is required. We are pleased with this outcome, which confirms that our policies and procedures have been keeping the building safe since our re-occupancy in August.

NYC COMPLAINT: We received a notification yesterday from New York City’s Department of Health and Mental Hygiene with similar allegations to the OSHA complaint. We have responded to this city notice, and we expect a similar resolution.

As always, we remind you to check the Campus Planning and Facilities website for this and other updates, including the comprehensive memo we sent last week. We will continue to inform the campus community of significant developments via email, digital screens, and other channels.
Sincerely,
Ibi Yolas
Vice President, University Campus Planning and Facilities
Brian Anderson, MPH, CSP
Executive Director of Emergency Management and Environmental Health and Safety
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