EN-POWER GROUP was featured in Habitat Magazine for its role in guiding a landmarked West Village co-op through a critical cooling system replacement amid unprecedented construction and permitting challenges during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Context: A Necessary Capital Project Meets a Global Disruption

A 155-unit landmarked co-op in the West Village had engaged EN-POWER GROUP to perform its periodic energy and water audits required under Local Law 87. During the audit process, it became clear that the building’s rooftop cooling tower and chillers were underperforming and nearing failure.

When the chillers ultimately gave out, the board determined that both the cooling tower and chillers needed immediate replacement. Under normal conditions, the project would have been complex. The onset of the coronavirus pandemic introduced an entirely new layer of uncertainty.

EN-POWER GROUP’s Role

As explained by Amalia Cuadra, PE, Senior Director of Engineering at EN-POWER GROUP, the project moved into permitting just as COVID-19 began disrupting city operations. Changes within the Department of Buildings (DOB) and the Landmarks Preservation Commission (LPC) slowed approvals at a time when timing was critical.

EN-POWER GROUP coordinated closely with city agencies to secure multiple permits, including landmark approvals, after-hours variance permits, and Department of Transportation authorizations needed to stage a crane in front of a firehouse. When standard online processes shut down, the team adapted by identifying alternative approval pathways to keep the project moving.

Results: Keeping Essential Work Moving Safely

As citywide construction restrictions tightened, most work was halted unless deemed essential. EN-POWER GROUP worked with the board and property management to demonstrate that completing the cooling system replacement was critical to resident health and safety, particularly with the risk of early-season heat waves.

The project received essential-construction approval within 24 hours, allowing work to proceed under strict safety protocols. Contractors adhered to Executive Order 202.6, implementing social distancing, personal protective equipment requirements, and modified work practices to protect both workers and residents.

Despite these constraints, installation of the new cooling tower progressed, with chiller replacement scheduled to follow on an adjusted timeline.

Why This Matters for Co-op and Condo Boards

This feature underscores that capital projects do not stop during crises. Buildings still face aging infrastructure, compliance obligations, and resident safety concerns, even under extraordinary circumstances.

Effective project management, regulatory knowledge, and adaptability are critical when external conditions change rapidly. Boards that work with experienced engineering partners are better positioned to navigate uncertainty, protect residents, and keep essential systems operational.

Media Attribution

This project was originally featured in Habitat Magazine on April 8, 2020.
[Read the full article on Habitat Magazine →]

 

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