Urban Infill at Bryson Legacy

Now that the project is nearing completion, Staples Construction is looking back on how we successfully tackled numerous obstacles commonly associated with high-density urban areas.

Urban infill projects, like Bryson Legacy, present numerous challenges including limited space utilization, increased safety risks, and the logistics of operating within a zero-lot line. These challenges emphasize the importance of pre-planning and accommodating community needs when undertaking urban infill projects.

One of the primary logistical challenges in high-density areas is adapting to the surrounding traffic flow and public infrastructure. Coordinating construction deliveries required meticulous scheduling and obtaining necessary permits as trucks had to navigate through planned traffic routes.

Pouring and finishing the concrete podium deck posed additional challenges, necessitating further traffic control planning and route coordination for concrete delivery trucks. Effective communication and coordination with the surrounding community ensured smooth construction progress. With limited space, it was crucial to protect public rights-of-ways, which involved planning street usage, overhanging canopies, designating construction areas, and using a crane to lift building materials onto the podium deck.

To ensure public safety and minimize disruptions, relevant permits were obtained from the Department of Public Works, and coordination with the community was essential. For instance, crane operations were scheduled during school hours to minimize traffic and pedestrian impediments.

The zero-lot line aspect of the project added complexities in space utilization. To make necessary accommodations, the construction office was temporarily built within the site parking structure, using a shipping container. To further manage space usage, off-site storage facilities were used to keep appliances and lumber until they were ready to be used.

Working within a zero-lot line meant that parking for construction personnel was also limited within the project site. Staples Construction tackled this issue by arranging off-site parking, utilizing empty lots, and collaborating with neighboring establishments to rent parking spaces.

Safety is a crucial consideration as high-density areas are often prone to crime and attract individuals seeking shelter. To address these concerns, an eight-foot fence was constructed above concrete traffic barriers and security cameras were installed around the perimeter.  Security personnel were also deployed during off-hours and on weekends. This kept the site safe, clean, and prevented the entry of unexpected visitors.

While urban infill construction presents various challenges that are often underestimated, proactive and thorough pre-planning, as demonstrated by Staples Construction on the Bryson Legacy project, can effectively overcome these challenges to create a safe and productive worksite.