Other structures within the scope of Phase 1 include a new 55,000ft² ‘Lenfest Center For The Arts’ building and a below grade Central Energy Plant.
The Phase 1 development is planned to have a common deep basement encompassing the whole site, though the existing site conditions pose significant structural design challenges. There are many factors that add complexity including a high groundwater table, a 250ft depth to rock, the proximity of an elevated subway line on the east side and the elevated riverside viaduct on the west side.
To simplify the below grade dewatering, the site will be surrounded with a deep diaphragm/slurry wall system providing water cut-off and structural stiffness to minimise settlement of the elevated subway and the viaduct.
A ‘top down construction’ scheme has been adopted consisting of excavating below while simultaneously building the structure above thus saving significant construction time.
WSP has also been awarded the below grade space for Phase 2. This common base will support teaching facilities above grade and will encompass mechanical spaces, parking, loading dock facilities and other support spaces.
