Manhattan high‑rise stabilized after beam failure threatens collapse

Engineers stabilized a 37‑storey former Pfizer headquarters in Manhattan after bent load‑bearing beams were discovered on the 21st floor, prompting fears of partial collapse. The building, being converted to residential use, was evacuated and a nine‑building zone was sealed off while crews installed temporary steel support columns between the 18th and 23rd floors.

City authorities reopened several streets on Wednesday after confirming that no further movement had been detected. The Department of Buildings said the structure is now secure, and the project developer, MetroLoft, pledged to fully restore the affected sections. An investigation into the design and construction documents is underway.