Cincinnati Museum Center
TYLin provided structural engineering services for the restoration and preservation of an iconic Art Deco terminal building.
The Union Terminal Building first opened in 1933 and now houses three museums and a theater. The building is listed on the National Register of Historic Buildings and revered in the Cincinnati area.
TYLin participated in a long-range facility master plan that focused on the restoration and preservation of several significant historic areas. In order to ensure long-term preservation and usability of the building, TYLin was asked to review and comment on the existing structural conditions of the historic building. The evaluation involved investigation and analysis of the current structural conditions as well as an assessment of the short- and long-term performance issues and life expectancies of the existing structure. Elements in the survey included masonry and stone building envelope; flat and inclined roof areas and parapets; the front entrance canopy, plaza, and fountain; steel and concrete superstructure framing system; and preliminary review of the pile foundation.
TYLin subsequently specified and supervised the repairs performed during the restoration phase. Work included restoration of the Union Terminal railroad station in compliance with the Secretary of the Interior’s Standards for Rehabilitation. The museum remained partially open to the public during construction.
Image credit: Brad Feinknopf