Part of the larger City Center Allentown project is 520 Hamilton, a new six-story mixed-use building with retail and luxury residences. Ensuring the preservation and integrity of the buildings surrounding the site during demolition and construction required precise measurements. To accomplish this, RETTEW used 3D laser scanning in addition to traditional surveying methods.

This technology enabled us to gather literally millions of accurate measurements and generate a more user-friendly deliverable. During a short time on site in a very challenging work environment we collected the measurement data needed. We processed the data into a compressed point cloud database, which can be easily accessed and managed. The entire team referenced the final product, an AutoCAD 3D model, throughout the project.

With the deliverable in hand, the contractor proceeded with demolition and construction. We also used the same technology during the installation of an elevated walkway attached to the parking garage. We collected additional data and worked with the contractor to ensure a precise connection between the structures. With less than one day on site, the quantity and quality of data gathered benefited the project team, and the contractor completed the work efficiently and confidently.