Durability and functionality are the key elements of successful parking structure restoration. Our engineering and architectural professionals identify unique design requirements and recommend material applications to ensure maximum performance life for each parking facility. Our comprehensive drawings and coordination during construction guarantee timely project completion, within the owner’s budget.
“Often neglected, garage structures deteriorate from the constant moisture infiltration and chloride ions causing steel to rust and concrete to crack and spall. With proven experience, our engineers are well prepared for the challenging aspects when restoring parking facilities.”
Mario Cirigliano
Principal
PARKING GARAGE CONDITION ASSESSMENTS NEW YORK STATE AND NEW YORK CITY
On Tuesday, April 18th, a parking garage collapsed in lower Manhattan, killing one person and injuring five others. While the cause is still under investigation, structural issues are believed to be to blame for the tragic collapse. Recent changes were put into effect to prevent future negligence and destruction of parking garages across New York State, including New York City. A brief summary of each rule is outlined below.
- NEW YORK STATE
The Department of State adopted a rule that amends Parts 1202, 1203, and 1204 of Title 19 of the New York Codes, Rules and Regulations, which requires owners of parking garages to have periodic condition assessments performed by a qualified Professional Engineer (PE). The assessment should include an on-site inspection and evaluation of a parking garage to determine evidence of deterioration of any structural element or building component, evidence of the existence of any unsafe condition, and evidence indicating that a parking garage is an unsafe structure. Once the engineer completes the condition assessment, a report will be prepared, signed, sealed and then submitted to the local jurisdiction. Click on the link below for additional details.
- NEW YORK CITY – LOCAL LAW 126 OF 2021
Local Law 126 of 2021 requires owners of parking structures to hire a Qualified Parking Structure Inspector (QPSI) to inspect the structure at least once every six years and file a report with the DOB documenting the results of the inspection (in accordance with NYC Construction Codes §28-323, and RCNY §103-13). The report will document whether the parking garages is “Safe”, “Unsafe”, or “Safe with Repair and/or Engineering Monitoring”. Annual observations should also be completed between assessments but do not require a PE. Building owners and property managers should keep the completed report accessible in the event a DOB inspector requests a copy on site.Any space for parking/storing motor vehicles, other than an unenclosed outdoor lot, 1- or 2-car garage, or auto service station or showroom, must undergo an assessment by a certified QPSI. 1
- AUGUST 1ST DEADLINE – A new Department of Buildings Rule (1 RCNY §103-16) requires owners of parking structures to have a one-time initial observation of the parking structure performed by August 1, 2024. This initial observation requirement applies to parking structures in Community Districts 8 through 12 in Manhattan, and all Community Districts in Brooklyn, Queens, Staten Island and the Bronx that are required by Article 323 of Title 28 of the NYC Administrative Code and 1 RCNY §103-13 to have periodic inspections performed by December 31, 2025 or December 31, 2027. Read full Service Notice posted by the NYC DOB.
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*Although the filing window for Sub-cycle A structures, Manhattan Community Districts 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, and 7 is closed (1/1/2022 – 12/31/2023), you can still file a full late PIPS report. Late fees will apply.Sub-cycle B, Manhattan Community Districts 8, 9, 10, 11, and 12; and all Brooklyn Community Districts must file between 1/1/2024 – 12/31/2025. After that, Sub-cycle C begins for all Bronx, Queens, and Staten Island Community Districts (1/1/2026 – 12/31/2027).
Our Principal, Chris Krepcio, PE, is a Qualified Parking Structure Inspector (QPSI), certified by the NYC DOB.
Our Principal, Mario Cirigliano, addresses the most frequently asked questions regarding Local Law 126 compliance in this article published by NYREJ.
Parking Lots, Sidewalks & Plazas
Merritt Engineering addresses all aspects of parking lot, sidewalk and plaza restorations, from installing new waterproofing systems to correcting sidewalk trip hazards. We first assess the conditions of the existing substrate, examining the paver system, concrete slabs, waterproofing membranes and overall drainage systems in place. We then specify the most appropriate solutions to ensure safety, durability, feasibility, functionality and the overall aesthetic appearance.
Merritt Engineering’s sidewalk and plaza projects include:
