Investigation Launched After Structural Issues at Manhattan High-Rise

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AI Summary
The New York City Department of Investigation has initiated an inquiry into a high-rise building in Manhattan after structural columns buckled, prompting evacuations and road closures. The developer, MetroLoft, attributed the issue to faulty column supports due to excessive weight from ongoing renovations, which added 18,000 square feet to the upper floors. While the company claims there was no risk of collapse, city officials have declared the building unstable and established a collapse zone. A thorough investigation will examine construction documents and witness accounts to prevent future incidents. The inquiry follows a history of legal challenges faced by MetroLoft regarding safety violations at other properties.
Key Details: • Investigation includes reviews of construction documents and witness interviews. • MetroLoft must hire a third-party engineer for a forensic evaluation. • Evacuations were prompted by workers spotting cracks and buckled columns. • MetroLoft is currently involved in multiple legal challenges related to safety issues.