Thoughts on The Old Pfizer Building on East 42nd Street

As some of you might know, I worked at the Chrysler Building in New York City for 18 months circa 2018 through 2020 before the COVID pandemic hit.

During my lunch hour, I would often walk around the neighborhood and sometimes I would pass the old Pfizer Building at 235 East 42nd between Third and Second Avenues.

Today, much of the area had to be evacuated because the old Pfizer building was in danger of collapsing as several columns buckled causing floors to cave resulting in a widespread evacuation. 

I was not aware that Pfizer moved to Hudson Yards in 2023. After Pfizer left, plans were put in place to convert the old site into residential apartments with it being joined with another building down the street at 219 East 42nd Street. An additional 19 floors are being added to the latter address. 

To say that this is massive undertaking would be an understatement with very little margin for error. Efforts are being made to stabilize the area.

All things considered, I am amazed there aren't more incidents of these types. Of course, it is quite possible there are these sorts of incidents happen with some regularity, and we are unaware of it. But when things of this nature happen in New York City, it makes the news. I experienced this firsthand with a blackout in July 2019 and a busted water main in January 2020. 

One can only hope the area is safe. However, I suspect that those who can work from home will work from home. For those who have to work in the area, they will tread lightly in and around East 42nd Street.