94 Cumberland Street

Project Overview

We were contracted by The Minto Group to manage the 94 Cumberland Street decommissioning and demolition of a nine-storey commercial building in Yorkville, Toronto. Built in the late 1960s, the structure included a reinforced concrete frame, precast façade panels, and a two-level basement. Due to the building’s dense urban location, the project required extensive planning, precision, and regulatory coordination.

Hazardous Material Abatement and Interior Strip-Out

Our team safely removed all hazardous materials, including asbestos. Following abatement, we dismantled mechanical systems, electrical infrastructure, and interior finishes using mini-excavators and skid-steers. As a result, the site was safely prepared for structural removal.

Structural Shaft Creation and Tower Crane Installation

We created a vertical shaft from the roof to the basement, supported by high-capacity post shores. Moreover, we constructed a cast-in-place concrete pad within the shaft to anchor a tower crane equipped with a luffing jib. This setup enabled the safe removal of heavy beams, columns, and precast panels in a controlled environment.

Floor-by-Floor Demolition Strategy

We dismantled the building floor by floor using compact demolition equipment. In addition, we installed a mast-climber system around the perimeter to provide safe access, contain debris, and minimize dust. The tower crane played a crucial role in lowering large structural components safely to grade.

Ground-Level and Substructure Demolition

After reaching a safe elevation, we deployed full-sized excavators with hydraulic hammers, shears, and a 75-ft high-reach boom to complete the 94 Cumberland Street decommissioning. We removed foundations in sequenced stages and backfilled the excavation with engineered shale to protect adjacent structures.

Precision Excavation Near Sensitive Structures

Adjacent to an active building and a utility vault, 140 ft of foundation wall required highly controlled sequencing. Therefore, we installed a cast-in-place stabilization block—8 ft thick and up to 14 ft tall—to support wall removal and maintain long-term stability in this below-grade area.

Project Success and Urban Demolition Expertise

We completed the 94 Cumberland Street decommissioning without incident, on time, and in full compliance with Toronto’s urban construction regulations. Through precise planning and execution, we delivered a safe, clear site fully prepared for redevelopment, with complete protection of neighboring infrastructure and pedestrian routes.