ECC Exploratory Work 9.22.2024

Updates from the Etna Center for Community

Weeks of August 19 - September 22, 2024

Above. Megan Tuñón carries out demolition debris to dumpster.

Once the move-out and Preparation Phase were complete, we entered what we called the Exploratory Phase—a period of light, non-structural demolition performed by volunteers to reveal existing building conditions. The goal of this phase was to uncover concealed elements and identify structural conditions requiring further evaluation.

Work began in the former Pop-Up Library, where we started by peeling back layers of wall board. Along the south-facing wall, which sits on the property line, we uncovered five distinct layers: (1) the yellow-painted gypsum board and trim, (2) a layer of wood paneling, (3) wood furring strips, (4) brittle plaster, and (5) the load-bearing multi-wythe brick wall. This pattern of uncovering multiple layers of materials continued throughout the Exploratory Phase, as previous owners had consistently added new materials over existing ones—some dating all the way back to the original ownership in the 1870s.

1-7. Former Pop-Up Library (341 Butler St. storefront) exploratory demolition work.

At the existing storefront, we discovered that the soffit box creating the lowered entry was entirely non-structural and relatively simple to remove. Once it was taken down—along with an additional ceiling layer composed of red and green wood paneling—the original plaster and lath ceiling was revealed. This allowed us to document existing conditions and share them with the architectural and structural consultants, including the dimensional sizing of an anticipated but previously undocumented steel beam supporting the masonry above the storefront.

Another key effort during this phase was the removal of all power and gas from the building. Our neighbor, Brandon Reeg, generously volunteered one evening to help remove the large, ceiling-mounted gas space heater and its associated gas lines. For many, this heater had come to symbolize the transformation ahead—from a temporary Pop-Up Library to a safe, healthy, and permanent home for the future Etna Center for Community.

1-8. Demolition of interior stair walls to connect 341 and 343 Butler St. storefronts.

The most rewarding moment of the Exploratory Phase came when the two storefronts—341 and 343 Butler Street—were connected through selective demolition. A hallway dividing the two spaces led to a central stair. Once the multiple finish layers were removed, the full potential width of the building could be experienced for the first time. In future phases, the stair will be relocated to the north wall, allowing the library interior to become a larger, more interconnected environment.

1-4. Removing demolition debris.

As the Exploratory Phase progressed, construction debris accumulated, prompting us to order our first 30-yard dumpster from Waste Management. While hauling materials, we received a helpful assist from our neighbor, Connie Wolfe, who generously helped us fill the entire dumpster in just one afternoon.

1-9. Demolition of ceiling at 341 Butler St. to expose steel structure.

During this phase, the flooring remained in place due to the presence of hazardous materials. Similar to the walls, multiple layers were uncovered, including (1) LVT click flooring, (2) a thin foam absorption layer, (3) 9x9 ACM tile with black mastic, (4) wood paneling, and (5) the original wood flooring. In a future phase, all ACM and hazardous materials will be professionally abated by a licensed abatement company.

Once the wall finish demolition was completed, we began removing the ceiling finishes to expose the Second Floor framing. The Exploratory Phase concluded when the rear steel beam was uncovered, marking the transition from the historic building to the two-story additions slated for demolition. With this structural element now visible, the scope of work for Selective Demolition became clearer and ready for bidding.

Future work anticipated:

• Host "Wall Busting" ceremonial event.

• Complete Abatement phase.

• Bid Selective Demolition phase.

Photo credits: Robert Tuñón