Photo by Eduard Hueber / Arch Photo
Work on the historic Pier A was performed with the intent of preserving the character of the site while preparing for future tenant build-out.

Despite being designated as a historic landmark in 1975, the 128-year-old Pier A, which is New York City's oldest surviving pier, fell into disrepair.

This three-phase $37-million project involved a complete renovation of the 36,000-sq-ft pier's interior; restoration of the exterior and roof; structural repairs; and the installation of new concrete slabs and access ramps on the pier's promenade. The project scope also included items such as construction of an underwater structural support system for the installation of a geothermal array system. Such systems are generally used on boats; this is the first time it was used on a stand-alone building, according to project officials.

All work was performed with the intent of preserving the character of the site while preparing for future tenant build-out, such as a dining-and-entertainment venue. The project, which is targeting LEED Silver certification, was almost complete when Superstorm Sandy struck in 2012, destroying the field office and flooding the main level of the building. As a result, the project scope was broadened to include fortifying the structure against future storms. Final work was completed with a modified 30-month, client-approved schedule. Judges called the project "transformative."

Submitted by LiRo Program & Construction Management and Stalco Construction Inc.

Owner Battery Park City Authority

Construction Manager LiRo Program & Construction Management

Architect H3 Hardy Collaboration Architecture

General Contractor Stalco Construction Inc.

Engineers Weidlinger Associates Inc.; Arup; DSM Engineering Associates; AKF Group

MEP Contractors ACS System Associates; Olympic Plumbing; Crana Electric