Construction Update: February 2019

The Portland Building reconstruction project continues to make progress on schedule this winter. The primary objective of the project is to create a functional, accessible, sustainable, and seismically upgraded public building.

RECENT PROGRESS

In the past several weeks, work on exterior and interior upgrades has progressed, including:

• In the basement, the old service stair running from the basement to the 2nd floor has been replaced with a service elevator pit. A new concrete slab has been poured to level the old parking garage ramp. Crews have also begun installing overhead plumbing for the locker room and restrooms as well as building out electrical support spaces.
• The raised concrete slab on the east side of the 1st floor and a portion of the slab on the 2nd floor have been demolished. The new unitized curtainwall will incorporate an expansive two-story window in this space.
• The seismic upgrades are nearing completion, with shear wall installation on the 11th, 12th, and 13th floors complete. Additional structural columns on the exterior walls are complete through the 14th floor.
• The interior build-out is progressing well on the 4th floor with crews in the process of painting, installing acoustic ceiling tiles, light fixtures and setting tile in the restrooms.
• On the exterior, installation of curtain wall panels has shifted to the east and south facades. Installation on the west and north facades is 90% complete.
• New air handler units have been placed on the roof. Crews are working to finish the installation and make the electrical and plumbing connections.

UPCOMING WORK

• The remaining seismic upgrades are expected to finish up this month.
• Curtainwall panel installation will continue on remaining facades.
• Interior build-out will continue on tenant floors 5 through 10.

WHAT TO EXPECT DURING CONSTRUCTION

Some changes to pedestrian routes and street parking adjacent to the building should be expected for the duration of the project. We appreciate your cooperation. Please let us know if you have questions or concerns.

DISADVANTAGED BUSINESS SUBCONTRACTOR SPOTLIGHT

General Sheet Metal was selected by Howard S. Wright-Belfour Beatty (HSW), General Contractor for The Portland Building Reconstruction Project, as a trade partner on the project largely due to its track record for delivering. The many mentorships and apprenticeships that the company sponsors add to the overall diversity of the City’s project in a way that fits well with the project’s objectives. For the full story on General Sheet Metal, please click here.