Statue of Liberty National Monument Life and Safety Upgrades and Post-Sandy Recovery, New York City: Award of Merit for Government/Public Buildings

This $42-million, two-pronged project initially involved upgrading life, fire and safety systems at the Statue of Liberty National Monument—a job that was finished the day before Superstorm Sandy struck. Before the storm, the team’s work included demolishing the interior levels of the 145-ft-high granite pedestal, including dismantling the seven-story interior stairwell and replacing it with two wider stairwells. But the storm left Liberty Island with severely damaged buildings, promenade, docks, grounds and other infrastructure. As a result, the team’s next job focused on replacing and relocating mechanical, electrical and plumbing systems. Electrical switches and equipment were moved from the basement level to a new steel floor, erected 14 ft above ground to comply with new federal regulations and to prevent future damage and loss of power during storms.

Judges commended the team’s handling of logistical constraints in getting to and from the island as well as once on site.