LERA Consulting Structural Engineers (LERA) provided structural engineering services for the renovation of The Aaron Diamond AIDS Research Center (ADARC) at Columbia University Medical Center in New York City which opened recently. The lab, under David D. Ho, MD, ADARC’s founding scientific director and chief executive officer is now leading research into the COVID-19 coronavirus and the pursuit of a therapy or vaccine.

Working with architect Lord Aeck Sargent, the project involved adding a new architecturally exposed stair which connected two floors; reinforcement of existing equipment, adding new roof dunnage to accommodate new MEP equipment; providing supports for new IT/AV equipment and utility spaces, and a new walk-able architectural ceiling in the lobby areas.