Handi-Lift Inc. recently completed the installation of two vertical platform lifts as part of the renovations at the famous Marriot Marquis Hotel in Times Square NYC. The two lifts serve back of house areas at the Marquis Theatre which has been the home of famous shows like Evita and Follies.

Handi-Lift was chosen by Turner Construction to provide these lifts as part of the major renovations to retail spaces, theatre back of house areas, and new digital signage.

Our installation team did a great job overcoming the challenges of working in one of the busiest areas in the world. Both lifts were in fire rated shafts which required the use of elevator style fire doors which close flush to the inside of the shaft. The units had travel nearing the limits of vertical platform lift’s at nearly 14 feet. One of the units was an on off same side configurations which required the use of power door operators at both landings. Turner Construction did a nice job with the shaft and wing walls to finish of the installation to meet required running clearance. We also provided ADA hands free auto dial phones on the units.

Now for the coolest part of the project. To thank all the vendors and contractors that worked on this $140 million project Vornado Realty Trust, the building owner, used its brand new; largest in the USA; most expensive; and highest definition digital billboard for a presentation that featured each contractor’s logo. This screen is longer than a football field and eight stories tall. It was pretty impressive to see the Handi-Lift logo lighting up Broadway.

We’d like to thank Turner and Vorando for the opportunity and also take the time to congratulate the Boydston’s and the entire Handi-Lift family on 40 years of operations as we kick off our 40^th anniversary.