KS Engineers, P.C. (KSE) provided structural assessment services of the Botanic Avenue Site for the Philadelphia Industrial Development Corporation (PIDC).
The PIDC requested a cursory structural evaluation of the buildings located at the site to determine whether it was viable to rehabilitate them to a State of Good Repair (SOGR) for future use or to recommend demolition. The results of our data assessment were documented using our Facility Data Management System (FDMS). This decision support tool provided the data that was analyzed and used to recommend both the type and limits of rehabilitation necessary, to assist in understanding the necessary repairs and/or replacements required to either utilize this facility or proceed with demolition. A budget, as a square foot cost estimate, has been provided to rebuild facilities and provide new structures, and/or to demolish the existing structures. The replacement estimate is based on equivalent facilities of a size comparable to the existing site, or approximately 60,000 SF in total area.
The site consists of multiple structures of varying types and construction. This inspection involved a focus on the two larger structures, as well as five smaller, ancillary structures and a concrete ramp/platform adjacent to the Schuylkill River. The site was previously used by the City of Philadelphia Department of Construction and Facilities Management.
The deficiencies consisted of deteriorated finishes; concrete spalls; horizontal, vertical, and step cracks; and corroded steel. The majority of deficiencies noted in this report appear to be connected mainly to age, use, and exposure. Water infiltration issues have led to severe corrosion of the structural steel, resulting in cracking and spalled brick and concrete. KSE’s report identified deficiencies and provided recommendations. The deficiencies noted during this inspection have been classified as substandard to deficient, and therefore beyond consideration for repair.
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