Several sections of collapsed crane removed

the crane collapsed during Hurricane Dorian on Sept. 7 on a building on South Park Street in Halifax

government declared a localized state of emergency at the site where the crane rests on Sept. 18. It was extended for another 14 days on Oct. 2

the localized emergency area is defined as the city block within the boundaries of South Park Street and bordered by Brenton Street, Brenton Place and Spring Garden Road

Halifax Fire and Emergency Services is responsible for the evacuation order affecting residential and business tenants

the crane is secured in place by 26 anchor points using cable, chains and structural steel

NEWS RELEASECOMMUNICATIONS NOVA SCOTIA**************************Several sections of the crane that collapsed over a building in Halifax during last month's hurricane were removed today, Oct. 14. The front jib, the counterweight jib and the top portion of the front boom were taken off the Olympus building. The catwalk was also cut and removed from the boom on Sunday.As a safety measure, Halifax Regional Fire and Emergency were on-site hosing down the Olympus building to make sure sparks from the welding didn't cause a fire.As a result of the work completed this weekend, the evacuation order has been lifted for two buildings: 5690 Spring Garden Rd. and 1491 South Park St. Residents can reoccupy these buildings immediately. All other evacuation orders remain in place at this time."This is challenging work and safety continues to guide every decision we make," said Lloyd Hines, Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure Renewal. "I want to thank the crews who worked through the weekend to remove the first sections of the crane. This is complex work and each detail of the removal is carefully planned with safety in the forefront."Over the next several days, the heavy-lift cranes will be repositioned to prepare for cutting up and removing the main tower. Supports will be put in place around the fallen crane's tower and necessary preparation work will be completed to ensure the safety of the workers and others in the area. The removal of the tower is scheduled to begin Saturday, Oct. 19, weather permitting.Crews are working carefully to keep the crane stabilized and protect themselves, the public and surrounding infrastructure from falling debris.Further information will be provided as soon as available.

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