September 18, 2025

Gantry Crane Successfully Decontaminated

We’re excited to share a significant milestone in Phase 1 of the Foundry Redevelopment Project—the successful decontamination and removal of the historic Gantry Crane.

This complex operation marked a critical step in preparing the Foundry for future redevelopment. Here’s how the process unfolded:

Disassembly in Place

Ancillary components—including the catwalk, winch, motor, driveshaft, and control cab—were carefully removed from the crane structure while it remained in place and then lowered to the ground.

Stringer Separation

The two large horizontal beams (called "stringers") were separated to allow each half of the crane to move independently.

Safe Lowering Procedures

To remove each stringer:

• Two telehandlers (“lulls”) supported the ends of the first stringer.

• While supported, a technician in a boom lift used a propane torch to cut through the crane’s structure.

• The stringer was then safely lowered to the ground through carefully synchronized movements of both telehandlers.

• The second stringer’s removal required securing the rail carriages to the roof trusses to prevent collapse. Once secured, it was cut and lowered using the same method.

• Finally, the carriages were also safely lowered to the ground.

On-Ground Decontamination

Once the approximately 85-foot stringers were on the ground, they were cut into manageable sections. All decontamination took place within a carefully contained area lined with poly sheeting.

Environmental Testing

Our environmental remediation partner, Stone Environmental, collected confirmation samples from every surface of the crane. These samples will determine whether decontamination goals have been met.

What’s Next

Once samples confirm that the steel is clean, the materials will be safely transported off-site for recycling.

This achievement represents an important and tangible step forward in transforming the Foundry into a vibrant community space.  Future remediation work coming soon includes media blasting the interior surfaces, Annex demolition, concrete removal, and installation of a new concrete cap.  The EdgarMay will share updates as we progress through each step of the Remediation Phase.