Spring of 2024, Frattalone Companies was awarded the Gabbert’s Repurposing Project in Edina with Kraus Anderson. This project involves the redevelopment of the former Gabbert’s store, located within the upscale Galleria Shopping Center. Due to space constraints on site and permitting issues, complete demolition and rebuilding of the store were not feasible. Within two weeks of receiving the notice to proceed, we began the soft demolition phase, which included removing ceiling tiles and exposing ceilings and roofs to assess the necessary electrical, plumbing, mechanical, and communications systems that needed to be cut and capped.
The scope of the project includes the removal of 65% of the roof, 33% of the slab on deck between the valet level and the main level, structural steel where roofing and/or decking was removed, two exterior walls from the main level to the valet level, staircases, HVAC systems, plumbing, most interior walls, and other detailed demolition where the anchor store meets the existing mall. Notable aspects of the project include hand-separating roof sections and lifting them off using a crane, using a skid steer with a scud to remove other portions of the roof, and utilizing a robotic demolition machine to hammer the slab on deck. Frattalone has collaborated closely with our shoring contractor to develop demolition plans and install shoring, ensuring the safety of both workers and customers in the surrounding mall areas.
Chris Niemand estimated the project, and Andy Collova is the superintendent, who has dedicated significant time into reviewing the nearly 200 plan sheets associated with this project. In selective demolition, thorough knowledge of architectural plans, structural steel plans, flooring plans, roofing plans, and other details is essential. Andy has become highly familiar with these plans, nearly memorizing them. Merlin Stokes, foreman, and his team of dedicated heavy hitters have contributed close to 6,000 man-hours—primarily labor—to advance the demolition project to its near-completion stage.
In addition to demolition, Frattalone Companies is also contracted for earthwork and utility work on the site. The utility work includes installing a new water service, storm sewer, and a storm filtration system. The earthwork involves foundation excavation, new drives, sidewalks, and parking lot replacement.
Thanks to the entire team for their efforts in making this project a success for the collaborative venture between Frattalone and Kraus Anderson.
