Structural Failure at Pfizer Conversion Project Triggers Citywide Construction Review
New York City’s Department of Buildings launched safety inspections across multiple construction sites after two steel columns buckled last week at 235 East 42nd Street, a project converting the former Pfizer headquarters into 1,600 apartments. The incident caused several floors to sag and prompted the evacuation of nine surrounding buildings during morning rush hour. Four buildings remain under full vacate orders. The city is examining other projects involving developer MetroLoft and its private building inspector, Domani Inspection Services.
MetroLoft founder Nathan Berman said the columns may have buckled because they were not properly reinforced to support the weight of new additions to the property. The Department of Buildings is interviewing witnesses and responsible parties, and has not detected further movement since the incident. The developer hired Thornton Tomasetti to conduct an independent forensic analysis. The project, which includes a rooftop pool, gym, and ground-floor retail, is the largest planned office-to-residential conversion in the country.
Office-to-residential conversions have expanded over the past five years as cities address vacant office space and housing shortages. Public officials typically support these projects with tax breaks and other incentives. Mayor Zohran Mamdani reaffirmed his backing for conversions despite the 42nd Street incident, stating the city must pursue them safely and with accountability. The structural failure has raised concerns among some investors and lenders financing similar projects.
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