211 South Market Redevelopment

The former Wang’s building, 211 S. Market

The former Wang’s building, 211 S. Market

The Oskaloosa Historical Preservation Commission met Wednesday to approve demolition of the former Wang’s building, 211 S. Market. In May, Musco Facilities Team members identified a bulge in the south wall. Subsequent inspection revealed deteriorated brick and multiple structural deficiencies that led to the decision to remove rather than restore the building. An inspection report completed by Structural Engineers details deficiencies including:

  • south brick masonry wall bowing outward;
  • east wall shifting and separating from the south wall;
  • failure of masonry supports in the north and south walls;
  • deteriorated foundation mortar; and
  • insufficient floor load capacities out of compliance with International Building Code standards.

“Musco and our team members have worked in partnership with other organizations to champion and provide hands-on assistance with historic preservation projects in the Historic Downtown District in the past,” said Linda Crookham-Hansen. “But in this case, the extent of brick and mortar deterioration, and loss of structural integrity in the Wang’s building make it necessary to pursue a replacement project rather than restoration.”

The demolition will occur before the end of October, according to Musco Director of Facilities Jeff Greenhalgh. An exact date has not been set yet.

Musco plans to rebuild a two-story structure on the site, keeping the exterior design compatible with architecture in the District. The new building will include a long-needed passenger elevator.

“We plan to form a committee of Musco Team members to help determine what other features should be included in the new construction,” said Crookham-Hansen. “We are disappointed about the building condition report, said, Crookham-Hansen, “but look forward to the process of developing a new structure in the District that will contribute to our business and downtown for the next 100-plus years.”

Posted by on Oct 8 2015. Filed under Local News. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0. Responses are currently closed, but you can trackback from your own site.

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