New York, NY Bellet Construction, a Manhattan-based exterior restoration and roofing company, has been retained by the co-op board at 524 East 13th St., a five-story, c. 1885 building, located between Avenues A and B, to repair extensive damage at the foundation and waterproof the surrounding area. The cause of the damage, which is primarily affecting the retaining wall and below-grade levels, is the result of water run-off and encroaching tree root growth from a contiguous public community garden, owned by the NYC Department of Parks.
The co-op board’s president, Ingrid Weingard, was instrumental in bringing the three groups of stakeholders together, comprising co-op shareholders, Parks Department staff, and community gardeners. During on-site meetings at the building and in the garden, the group addressed possible ways to solve the root spread without damaging the trees, while ensuring the foundation of the building would be secured.
“Working with government agencies can be daunting and yet this co-op board was focused, tactful, and tenacious, which made all the difference in terms of getting permits for repairs and direction on remediation,” said Wayne Bellet, president of the firm. “This is an impressive community effort and I have every confidence that the repairs will be completed in a timely fashion to protect the foundation of this wonderful property for years to come.”
Bellet Construction will begin the work this summer. Estimated completion is end of year 2022.