For 47 years, the Bethlehem skyline was dominated by none other than the "Martin Tower", the world headquarters for the famous Bethlehem Steel. Not long after the tower went up, the company was struck with major financial problems. A shortage of workers, the shrinking need for steel, and high corporate spending caused the company to fail. By 2003, the company went bankrupt and moved out of the tower. With the property up for sale, a few dozen businesses moved into the first couple floors. However, the building was soon found to have concerning levels of asbestos and other harmful issues. By the year 2007, the skyscraper stood entirely vacant. Many plans were tossed around about the reuse of the tower and property, but the final decision was to demolish it. In 2017, asbestos removal began. The demolition was confirmed in January of this year, much to the disappointment and sadness of many locals who lived near or had relatives who worked inside the historic building. In the days leading up to the implosion, construction crews made relief cuts throughout the building's structure to help assist in the collapse. Finally, on the crisp morning of May 19th, 2019, the charges were set off at 7:04 am and the Martin Tower was erased from the Bethlehem skyline forever. Cleanup of the debris is expected to take up to a year to complete. Once finished, the area will be converted into commercial buildings such as hotels, storage, and a shopping center. Steel from the tower will be recycled, and the concrete will be reused in the foundations of the buildings that follow. I was glad I could document another piece of local history that people can look back on in years to come.
All videos and photos used in this were taken by me with the EXCEPTION of the photo at the 3:44 minute mark. That photo belongs to their rightful owners. Please do not copy or redistribute my work without proper permission.
© Austin Trains Productions.
SOURCES AND OTHER INFORMATION:
en.wikipedia.o...
www.capturedbyc...
www.mcall.com/...
Негізгі бет The Martin Tower Implosion - An Icon of Bethlehem PA
Пікірлер: 49