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Manhattan High-Rise Stabilized After Structural Issues Detected, Evacuation Lifted

Published July 8, 2026 at 1:16 PM UTC

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A high-rise building in Manhattan, formerly Pfizer’s headquarters and currently undergoing conversion into luxury apartments, was deemed stable after buckled columns raised fears of collapse. The incident prompted Tuesday morning evacuations of nearby buildings, including a school, diplomatic offices, and hotels near Grand Central Station. Emergency crews discovered bent columns and sagging floors on the 21st floor, but no ongoing movement, allowing some evacuees to return by night. The developers, MetroLoft and Gensler, indicated that widening the upper 15 floors may have stressed inadequately reinforced columns, although most of the structure remains sound. Structural experts warn more substantial repairs are likely necessary, including full column replacements. Despite previous safety violations on site, no debris fell and no injuries were reported. Shoring efforts are ongoing, disrupting a central part of Midtown Manhattan.