Government

NPS Water Infiltration Mitigation - Historic Ryan Visitor Center

Brooklyn, New York

Project Overview

MFS Construction was contracted by the National Park Service (NPS) to provide all the labor, equipment, material, necessary to successfully completed the Water Infiltration Mitigation project at the Historic Ryan Visitor Center for the National Park Service. The project involved addressing critical water infiltration issues in the historic structure, ensuring the preservation and functionality of the site. The scope included comprehensive demolition and reconstruction efforts. All work was executed in compliance with the National Park Service’s Scope of Work, including strict adherence to historic preservation standards.

Brooklyn, New York

Project Details

The project began with a thorough understanding of the site’s needs, developed through document reviews, site visits, and consultations with the National Park Service. MFS secured the work zone with safety fencing and clear signage, minimizing disruption to daily operations while prioritizing the safety of workers and visitors.

One key aspect of the project was mortar testing, where MFS coordinated a detailed assessment of the existing mortar, involving strategic probing and analysis. Recommendations for appropriate repair materials were provided by a historic preservation expert to maintain the structure’s historical integrity.

The project also included resetting the building’s iconic entrance clock to its proper alignment, requiring careful handling and secure reattachment. Coping stones were removed, cleaned out, inspected, and preserved to install dovetail under coping flashing. This process was executed with precision to ensure safety and maintain historical accuracy and to preserve original material.

Window lintels were replaced using galvanized steel and stainless-steel flashing systems, ensuring long-term durability, while preserving the building’s historic aesthetic. Damaged masonry or cast stone elements were replicated and marked to distinguish them from original materials.

Throughout the project, MFS implemented robust quality control measures, including preconstruction meetings, regular inspections, and a cloud-based document control system. A dedicated Quality Control Designee coordinated with subcontractors and ensured compliance with the site-specific quality control and safety plans.

MFS maintained budget and time control by generating a baseline construction schedule, providing regular updates, and utilizing a 4-week lookahead to anticipate and mitigate risks. Safety remained a top priority, with weekly toolbox talks, a comprehensive safety orientation, and rigorous enforcement of the MFS Construction Site Safety Plan.

Upon completion, MFS provided the National Park Service with as-built drawings, warranties, and detailed documentation, marking the successful conclusion of the project. The Water Infiltration Mitigation project not only preserved the integrity of the Historic Ryan Visitor Center but also enhanced its functionality for future use.

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.