Due to the unfortunate events of September 11th, 2001,
the Statue of Liberty was closed indefinitely. Liberty Island was reopened
to visitors several months later but Lady Liberty remained closed due to security
and safety concerns of the National Park Service. It was apparent the Statue was
a highly desirable terrorist target which required a review of the numerous life/safety
inadequacies in its current construction.
Highland Associates was commissioned
as Architect and Engineer in March 2003 responsible for analyzing, designing and executing
numerous life safety systems required for the Statue's reopening scheduled for the Summer
of 2004. Working closely with the National Park Service, its advisors and consultants along
with the Statue of Liberty/Ellis Island Foundation, Highland has developed a Master Re-opening
plan that includes additional exiting, sprinkler systems, fire standpipe, emergency lighting,
ADA ramps and an upgraded Building Management System which will greatly increase the Statue's
safety during an emergency.
In addition, changes instituted by the Park Service that
alter the visitors experience, such as redesigned public spaces, lighting and transparent viewing
galleries, have been conceived by Highland and will be part of the Master Re-opening plans.
Highland is extremely proud to be part of this historic renovation.
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