Long Beach Boardwalk

In late October of 2011, Hurricane Sandy ripped across the East Coast, destroying homes, businesses, and even boardwalks of many beaches. In the disaster's aftermath, many began seeking more durable building solutions so future boardwalks would have the ability to withstand storms.

Solution Offered: Precast Concrete
Rebuild the boardwalk by utilizing precast concrete. In mid-April of 2012, Architectural Precast Innovations, Inc., (formerly US Concrete Precast) began manufacturing more than 2,400 precast concrete pieces that would serve as the base of Long Beach, New York's new boardwalk.

"Precast will not only provide long-lasting strength and resistance to storms of hurricane nature, but also provide mold-resistance from the harsh salt water environment" said Marc Davis, General Manager of API.

Precast Concrete Saves both Time and Money
"The engineered system is designed for a long-life span and will reduce maintenance costs over time. The off-site fabrication allows for less site disturbance during construction and an expedited schedule, thus assisting to save time and money, and thus freeing up funding for other needs" said Steve Kenepp, Architectural Precast Innovations, Inc.

A Customized Solution Accomplished with Precast Concrete
A customized design was the selling point of precast. After many natives expressed their concern about the proposed boardwalk being a total-precast structure lacking wood, Architectural Precast Innovations, Inc. offered a solution. To create both a durable and nostalgic boardwalk, the company created the boardwalk's base from precast and allowed for a tropical wood inlay to be placed on top. The tropical wood not only served as a base for the beach goer's feet, but also provides the nostalgic connection desired by the people.

"We recognize the importance of these boardwalks to coastal communities and are proud to be part of the reconstruction efforts at Long Beach," stated Kenepp.