Construction of Disney’s new 22-story headquarters on Hudson Street has led to nearly $6 million in structural damage to the neighboring New York City Fire Museum, resulting in its closure for almost a year.
Beautiful terra cotta at 137 Varick for new Disney headquarters. Designed by SOM. pic.twitter.com/065maDcbk6
— Max Chavez (@maxeschavez) February 17, 2024
A Tragic Closure
In May 2024, “excessive vibrations” from nearby construction prompted an emergency evacuation of the museum, housed in a historic 120-year-old firehouse at 278 Spring Street. Staff reported hearing loud banging and feeling the floor become unstable. The building has remained closed since, with concerns about its structural integrity preventing reopening.
The prolonged closure has severely impacted the museum’s finances. In the fiscal year 2023-2024, it generated approximately $571,000, falling short of the $772,000 target. Director Patti Murphy stated, “We need immediate support” to address the financial strain caused by the closure.
Legal Actions and Disney’s Response
The city plans to sue developers and construction firms involved, including Skanska, Lendlease US Construction, and Hudson Square Realty, for alleged negligent work. Disney, which purchased the property in 2018, has pledged to collaborate with the city to resolve the issue.
Amid uncertainty about remediation timelines, Murphy is working to preserve the museum’s collection, which includes artifacts like a 1901 La France coal-fired steam engine and tools such as the Jaws of Life. She noted that safeguarding these items is “costly and complicated” for the small nonprofit.
The museum’s closure has deprived the public of a valuable educational resource that honors New York City’s firefighting history, including a memorial to the 343 firefighters lost on September 11, 2001. The situation has sparked community concern over the preservation of local history and the responsibilities of large-scale developers to their neighbors.
Construction on Disney’s new, 22-story New York City headquarters at Hudson Street caused what the city said was nearly $6 million in “significant structural damage” to the NYC Fire Museum, forcing it to close for nearly a year.https://t.co/cQHzH5PizC pic.twitter.com/nF5NIBRkgT
— NYC EMS Watch (@NYCEMSwatch) April 5, 2025
Looking Ahead
As legal proceedings unfold, the future of the New York City Fire Museum hangs in the balance. The community and patrons await a resolution that will allow the museum to reopen its doors and continue its mission of honoring the city’s firefighting heritage.
Only time will tell to see how Disney is able to help amend this tragic situation so future guests can enjoy this museum.
