Manhattan District 6/6A/8 Sanitation Garage

Situated between FDR Drive and First Avenue near the East River, the site for this state-of-the-art facility was planned as the operational hub for three independent sanitation districts: 6, 6A, and 8. Each district was to have its own dedicated vehicle, personnel, and administrative spaces within the proposed 4-story structure. The building was designed to accommodate a fleet of 171 vehicles, including refuse collection trucks, street sweepers, and personal staff vehicles. The plans called for the first two levels house vehicle repair, wash, and fueling facilities, streamlining maintenance and upkeep. The master planning of the site proposed taking full advantage of the entire city block, strategically placing the operations center in the middle while reserving the two ends for private commercial development, maximizing the potential of the space.

The facility was designed to seamlessly integrate into the surrounding neighborhood, which includes hospitals, EMS centers, laboratories, and mid-level apartment buildings. The proposal incorporated a range of good-neighbor elements to ensure harmony with the community. In pursuit of LEED Gold certification, the design specified environmentally friendly materials and energy-efficient systems are employed throughout the building. The dynamic façade and street-level retail would have created a vibrant experience for the surrounding area, enhancing the urban landscape. Recognizing the challenges posed by the 500- year flood zone, the design incorporates robust storm resiliency measures to protect the facility and ensure continuity of operations in the face of potential natural disasters.

Photo Credit: Urbahn Architects PLLC (Rendering)