Weather damaging Independence Hall tower

    The tower at Independence Hall is deteriorating because of the elements and it’s unique construction. Now, a project is underway to repair the historic building.

    The tower at Independence Hall is deteriorating because of the elements and it’s unique construction. Now, a project is underway to repair the historic building.

    Listen:
    [audio: reports20090410hall.mp3]

    The siding on the Independence Hall Tower has iron rods placed through wood siding.

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    Charles Tonetti is the chief historical architect of the park. He says the construction techniques have resulted in exposure to rain, and that the tower needs to be repaired.

    Tonetti: The real problem is the interaction of the rust with the wood fibers causing a breakdown of the cladding.

    How to do the repairs was the subject of a Philadelphia Historical Commission meeting. John Mattioni is a member of the commission.  He says he was suprised when presented with the condition of the structure.

    Mattioni: It is rather shocking to see one of the most important historic buildings in the country in such shabby repair.

    The Historical Commission is establishing a sub-committee to oversee the restoration, which should begin in 2011 and cost about 4 million dollars.

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