BOSTON, MASSACHUSETTS

Project History
Commonwealth Pier, one of the largest of its time, was at the
heart of the vibrant Boston Harbor trading community around
the turn of the century. By the early 1970’s it was in serious
disrepair. Extensive renovations began in 1975, the timber-
pile-supported pier had to be stabilized using cellular concrete.
The entire façade was clad with EIFS. The name was then
changed to the World Trade Center, and the structure began
a new life as an 800,000 square foot premier conference,
exhibition center and office complex. By 1999, after two
decades of harsh New England winters the façade was again
showing signs of distress. Edwards & Kelcey were retained
by the owners to evaluate the structure and developed a repair
strategy to extend the functional life and update the appearance.
There was significant damage to the exterior cladding and water
entry had become a serious concern. The engineer, contractor
and Conproco worked together to develop and implement a
repair/protection program that is still performing without flaws.

Time Frame – Fall 2000 - Summer 2001

Engineer
Edwards & Kelcey
Engineers,
Boston, MA

Contractor
NER Contruction,
Wilmington, MA