VCU engineering rooftop pyramid safely demolished after safety concerns
VENN
RICHMOND, Va. (WRIC) -- A coordinated effort ensured the safe demolition of Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU)'s Engineering's iconic rooftop pyramid after safety concerns.
The Old Dominion group and its affiliated companies -- Old Dominion
Abatement & Demolition (ODAD) and Integrated Scaffolding Concepts (ISC) -- recently responded to a service request from VCU's Engineering School to address safety concerns surrounding the building's rooftop pyramid structure, per a release.
The week-long project began after VCU engaged The Dominion Group when it discovered a loose metal panel in the Engineering School's pyramid structure.
Due to the worn-down facade creating safety concerns, The Old Dominion Group responded within hours, conducted an on-site assessment the next morning and later installed emergency scaffolding on the pyramid's west side.
The project was then completed in three phases:
- Phase 1: ISC put together a seven-person crew to erect scaffolding around all sides of the pyramid, including a custom-built interior enclosure surrounding the building’s cooling tower.
- Phase 2: ODAD removed the pyramid's facade and superstructure.
- Each steel support beam was numbered and lifted from the roof in sequence to preserve the building’s structural integrity. Within a 24-hour window, the façade panels and steel framework were safely removed and transported for recycling.
- Phase 3: Scaffolding dismantling and site restoration
- ISC dismantled and removed nearly 20,000 pounds of scaffolding equipment from the site over three days. With limited rooftop access, crews transported all materials using a small freight elevator, carefully coordinating the process to ensure safety and efficiency.
The Old Dominion Group was founded in 1981 and partners with general and mechanical contractors and owners on projects nationwide.
For more information, visit Old Dominion Group's website.
