Demolition Set to Resume After Fatality on Boston Garage Site

Abstract

July 7, 2022 Scott Van Voorhis KEYWORDS Bullfinch Crossing / demolition accident / HYM Investment Group / Peter Monsini Order Reprints No Comments HYM Investment Group is poised to resume tearing down the sprawling, 1960s-era Government Center parking garage in downtown Boston, a little more than three months after a section suddenly collapsed during demolition work, killing a 51-year-old heavy equipment operator. HYM effectively triggered a second T tunnel shutdown last month when it discovered serious water damage to one of the garage's support columns. "A group of highly qualified inspectors and engineers have thoroughly inspected and examined the Government Center Garage site and the demolition plans," HYM and National Real Estate Advisors said in a statement. The T shut down the Green and Orange line tunnels underneath the garage from June 23 to June 26 after the agency was notified by HYM of the condition of the garage column. There is likely to be some financial fallout for HYM, its partners, and the Bulfinch Crossing megaproject from the shutdown of demolition work for three months-not to mention the extensive disruptions caused to downtown Boston's subway system-but how much is not yet clear. HYM had begun planning a 400,000 sq ft plus life sciences building as its next project when the fatal demolition accident occurred in late March. "The MBTA is in the process of determining the financial impact this will have and will hold HYM fully accountable," the spokesperson wrote.