NYC reopens streets after Midtown tower evacuation near Grand Central
What's new: The closure zone was cut to two blocks, but five buildings remain under full or partial evacuation orders.
New York City began reopening streets and nearby buildings on July 8 after crews stabilized a Midtown Manhattan high-rise where workers reported buckling columns and sagging floors around the 21st floor. Buildings Commissioner Ahmed Tigani said officials had seen no movement for several hours and were able to inspect the damaged floor. The restricted area was reduced to 42nd and 43rd streets between Second and Third avenues, though five buildings remained under full or partial evacuation orders. No injuries were reported. The former Pfizer headquarters at 235 East 42nd Street is being converted into about 1,600 rental apartments, including roughly 400 affordable units, in one of the largest office-to-residential projects in the US.