Northeast Engineers & Consultants performed a structural investigation of the historic masonry building, constructed in 1920. The investigation found the water proofing of the structure had failed. This led to deterioration of the mortar between the brick work and the significant deterioration of the embedded steel beams supporting major spans and loads. Large marble panels weighing several thousand pounds were fracturing under the redistribution of stresses caused by the weakening of the structural steel elements within the building.

NE&C devised a plan to construct a bracing system to hold the weakened masonry areas securely while further destructive inspection could be achieved. This was particularly important since the bank continued its daily business and the patrons had to be protected against any stonework falling from the building. The destructive inspection revealed further complication with the building.

The loads were calculated for each bearing point in order that it could be supported during repairs. A structural restoration program was developed to repair most of the structural features. The overall water proofing deficiencies are being corrected.

In the spring of 2000, NE&C, in a cooperative effort with the masonry company, will disassemble sections of the front end of the bank building and replace the major structural steel supporting the roof, masonry fascia, and historic marble panels.

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