Rebuilding Legacy in Elmwood Park
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By Robert Murray
The Market Street project in Elmwood Park, New Jersey, exemplifies the power of community resilience, innovative design, and effective collaboration. Led by Crow Holdings, with Alston Construction, M+H Architects, and Alper Audi Structural Engineers, this ambitious initiative transformed the site of the former Marcal Paper Mill—which was tragically destroyed by fire in January 2019—into a modern industrial facility. The project not only replaced a significant local landmark but also honored the legacy of the Marcal Paper Company, providing a symbol of hope and renewal for the community.
Central to the success of this project was the culture of collaboration and excellence cultivated by the Tilt-Up Concrete Association (TCA). The TCA brings together a network of contractors, professionals, manufacturers, and suppliers who share a commitment to advancing the standards and practices of tilt-up construction. This collaborative environment enabled the exchange of knowledge and best practices, which played a crucial role in the Market Street project’s success.
This success was underpinned by strong communication and collaboration among all stakeholders. The client’s clear vision and expectations provided a solid foundation, guiding each phase of development. The seamless teamwork between Alston Construction, M+H Architects, and Alper Audi Structural Engineers was critical in addressing the project’s unique challenges, ensuring an outcome that exceeded expectations. Regular meetings and open communication channels kept all teams aligned, fostering a harmonious integration of architectural beauty and structural integrity. This cooperative spirit also extended to the broader community, whose engagement and support were vital throughout the construction process.
A hallmark of Alston Construction’s approach is its commitment to “value engineering,” a systematic process that analyzes every aspect of a project to optimize costs and enhance functionality without compromising quality. In the Market Street project, this approach was evident in the innovative solutions implemented, such as the use of tilt-up wall panels with brick inlays and translucent panels. These features not only contributed to the building’s aesthetic appeal but also echoed the historical significance of the site. The decision to incorporate 150,000 bricks into the structure was a thoughtful choice that reflected the site’s heritage while providing a state-of-the-art facility.
The architectural design of the new Market Street building is a harmonious blend of historical homage and modern innovation. The beautiful brick inlays on the tilt-up wall panels add a touch of elegance that connects the new structure to the site’s rich history. The translucent panels provide natural light during the day and a soft, glowing beacon at night, which is reminiscent of the old Marcal sign that once graced the site. The design also includes practical features such as 32 dock positions, two drive-in doors, a 60-foot speed bay, and 50’x54’ bays, all contributing to the building’s functionality and appeal.
The excellence of the Market Street project was further enhanced by the outstanding performance of its subcontractors. Lithko, the concrete subcontractor, played a key role in ensuring the quality and precision of the brick inlay panels, meeting and exceeding aesthetic and structural requirements. Triad Coatings contributed to the project’s success by providing a flawless exterior coating that enhances the building’s durability and visual appeal. The combined efforts of these subcontractors exemplify the high standards of workmanship that were integral to the project’s success.
The redevelopment of the Market Street site has broader implications beyond its physical structure. The new facility, described as a “trophy” industrial building, offers 207,000 square feet of space, a 40-foot clear height, and extensive parking and loading facilities. Its strategic location just north of I-80 and east of the Passaic River positions it as a new landmark for the area. The redevelopment has revitalized the site, reestablishing the former gateway to Elmwood Park and restoring life to this important area. The project stands as a beacon of innovation and resilience, setting new standards in industrial real estate.
In conclusion, the Market Street project in Elmwood Park, New Jersey, is a remarkable example of what can be achieved through the combined efforts of dedicated professionals and a supportive community. The transformation of a fire-ravaged site into a modern industrial landmark is a testament to the resilience and vision of all involved. Alston Construction and its partners have not only rebuilt a structure but have also revitalized a community—honoring the past while building for the future. This project stands as a model for future developments, blending historical reverence with modern excellence.