A towering 330-ton hydraulic lift crane is expected to arrive April 20 at the Markle Parking Deck construction site, marking a significant milestone in the project.
Initially positioned at the Acopian Engineering Center end of the construction site, the crane will be used to lift and place the large, precast support pieces for the deck, which range in size from 10,000 to 80,000 pounds. It will move gradually as work progresses until it arrives at the Oechsle Hall side of the site.
Work began in December to rebuild the 39-year-old Markle Parking Deck, which will have a slightly larger footprint and an additional level with a total of 560 spaces. A new main entrance to Markle Hall from the parking deck is also part of the $15 million project, to enhance the experience for campus visitors and prospective students and their families.
Visitors will proceed to Markle Hall from the parking deck’s third level via a pedestrian bridge over North Campus Lane. The new parking deck is expected to be open prior to the fall semester.