Government

NPS Jamaica Bay Masonry Facilities Rehabilitation

Brooklyn, New York

Project Overview

MFS Construction was retained by the National Park Service to rehabilitate multiple historic masonry structures at Jamaica Bay within Gateway National Recreation Area in Brooklyn, New York.

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NPS Jamaica Bay
NPS Jamaica Bay2
Brooklyn, New York

Project Details

The project included site preparation, selective demolition, masonry restoration, hazardous material handling, roofing replacement, and carpentry repairs. All work was completed while maintaining safe access and minimizing disruption to ongoing park operations.

MFS mobilized the site with secure work zones at each structure. Safety fencing, signage, and controlled access points were installed, and pedestrian movement through the park was maintained throughout construction. Work was sequenced at individual buildings to limit operational impacts.

Initial efforts focused on site clearing and selective demolition. Vegetation near masonry walls was removed by hand to avoid damage to historic materials. Trees were dismantled from the top down, and root systems were removed below grade. Selective demolition included removal of electrical components, doors, windows, and a generator, with materials carefully disassembled, documented, and disposed of in accordance with regulations.

Masonry rehabilitation included mortar analysis, brick resetting, and repointing across several structures. Mortar samples were collected and tested to determine appropriate replacement materials consistent with historic preservation standards. Deteriorated joints were removed, and new mortar installed using low-impact methods. Damaged bricks were replaced in kind where necessary, while salvageable units were reinstalled. Work was performed using scaffolding and lifts to access elevated areas, including chimneys.

Flashing and lintel repairs addressed water intrusion and structural deficiencies. Existing coping stones were removed and reinstalled following installation of new flashing systems. Lintels were replaced with galvanized steel lintels per engineered specifications, and surrounding masonry was reconstructed to match existing conditions.

Hazardous material testing was performed prior to roofing and coating removal. Identified asbestos- and lead-containing materials were abated in accordance with federal and state requirements. A hazardous chimney was dismantled in a controlled manner with full containment, worker protection measures, and regulated disposal procedures.

Roofing work included replacement and repairs at multiple buildings. One structure received a full roof replacement, while another was upgraded with a new TPO system. Concrete repairs were completed where needed, fall protection systems were maintained, and debris was efficiently managed to maintain safe conditions at grade.

Carpentry repairs included reconstruction of a porch structure with new composite decking and replacement columns matching existing features. Additional work included replacement of doors, windows, and vents, with framing modifications as required for new installations.

Stats

  • Owner:
    National Park Service

Services Provided

  • We have extensive experience providing construction management services to the construction industry in the public and private market sectors to a diverse clientele, including developers, state and government agencies, architects, engineers, and contractors. ​Our multiple discipline expertise and leading edge in-house professional technical ability enables us to offer invaluable solutions to our diverse client needs.
  • MFS provides materials, labor, equipment, and services necessary for the construction of a project and hires specialized subcontractors to perform specific duties as needed.