Photo: Wilk Marketing Communications

Construction on the new Lincoln Square Synagogue is underway and includes the assembly of the steel structure, base building work, and all interior finishes and systems.

Designed by architect CetraRuddy of New York City, the new three-story, 50,000-sq-ft Lincoln Square Synagogue, located on Amsterdam Avenue at 69th Street, is one of the first synagogues to be built in New York City in nearly 20 years both of which are currently under construction by Mc Gowan Builders, Inc. of East Rutherford, New Jersey and will house a sanctuary space for 450 congregants on the first floor, as well as a Beit Midrash that serves as the primary place for learning. Additionally, the synagogue will feature educational facilities, administrative offices, a large ballroom for congregational events, and outdoor activity areas for holiday uses.

Construction of the new synagogue encompasses erection of the steel structure, base building work, and all interior finishes and systems. The structural system includes massive long-span transfer beams with depths of up to 36 inches, which support columns above the lower level ballroom.

So far, the team which includes owner’s representative Winston Consultants, Inc. of Houston, Texas, structural engineer GACE Consulting Engineers of New York City, MEP engineerAMA Consulting Engineers of Parsippany, New Jersey, curtain wall consultant Gilsanz, Murray, Steficek, LLP of New York City, and steel fabricator/erector Barone Steel Fabricators of Brooklyn, New York has been faced with numerous logistical and planning challenges while constructing a large, new structure located near one of the busiest intersections in Manhattan such as complex permitting procedures with multiple city agencies, planning of material deliveries, street closures, and coordinating with neighbors.

However, upon completion in late 2010, it is expected to become one of the most architecturally prominent structures in New York City.

“For more than 40 years, Lincoln Square Synagogue has served as a beacon of orthodox Judaism on the Upper West Side,” said New York State Assembly Member Linda B. Rosenthal. “The congregation’s upcoming move to a stunning new building is an auspicious and welcome new chapter in the life of the shul and the community.”