Statue of Liberty National Monument

The award-winning project entailed the complete reconstruction of the 10-story pedestal’s interior to effect improved circulation, enhanced accessibility, and a higher life-safety standard within the national monument.

Keast & Hood served as part of a multi-disciplinary design team to upgrade visitor safety and comfort at the Statue of Liberty. Work included structural engineering consultation on an initial three-month pre-project to replace helical railings, culminating in the crown re-opening July 4, 2009 for the first time in eight years; comprehensive structural design and construction administration services for the pedestal interior renovation and two new egress routes through abandoned elements of the War of 1812-era Fort Wood surrounding the statue; full Revit (BIM) modeling of the new elevator shaft and two separate but intertwined stair structures that ascend within the pedestal and around the existing statue hold-down structures; and extensive site representation to respond rapidly to multiple field conditions and help maintain the tight construction schedule.

The renovation was recognized with a 2013 Building Design + Construction Gold Award, a 2013 Delaware Valley Association of Structural Engineers Outstanding Project Award, and a 2013 Merit Award from the New Jersey Chapter of the American Concrete Institute and the New Jersey Concrete and Aggregate Association.