Project UpdatesSeptember 25, 2024 - Scaffolding to be installed at the Registry Room balcony (3rd Floor). Work to be completed in phases. May 21, 2024 – Exterior scaffolding and protective “sidewalk sheds” have begun to be put into place around the main building. The scaffolding will enable the contractor to begin rehabilitating the exterior masonry and clerestory windows. Temporary Exhibit ClosuresStarting September 25, 2024:
What's Happening?Funded by the Great American Outdoors Act (GAOA), the project will include repair of masonry facades, windows, skylights, clay tile roofing, as well as underlying structural issues that need to be addressed to restore the integrity of the building exterior. Why Are We Doing This Project?The limestone and brick facades of the structure are generally sound, but show significant localized failure that may pose safety risks to the public and compromise the fabric of the existing building. There is active water infiltration in the structure, most noticeably at interior finishes. Open masonry joints and deterioration of the upper roof and structure are contributing to the water infiltration. Additionally, skylights that were installed in the 1980s have reached the end of their useful life and are contributing to resource degradation. Most of the building windows have not been significantly repaired since the 1980s rehabilitation and show varying degrees of deterioration. How Will This Impact Your Visit?During rehabilitation, there will be noise and construction activity around the Main Immigration Building. You are likely to see large construction equipment on the island. There may be short-term temporary closures of parts of the perimeter walkways and building entrances/exits. There will be scaffolding during masonry and window repair at differing elevations as the work progresses. There may be construction materials and personnel in the interior of the building as the work progresses. Throughout the construction, Ellis Island and the National Museum of Immigration will remain open to visitors. |
Last updated: September 27, 2024