Supporting the Syracuse Aquarium Project
How Trimble Services Helped Deliver HVAC Equipment, Install Aquarium Glass, and Support Construction in One of Syracuse's Most Unique Projects
Crane and Rigging Services for the Syracuse Aquarium Project
Trimble Services recently provided crane and rigging services in Syracuse, NY as part of the ongoing Syracuse Aquarium project. Supporting multiple phases of construction, our team assisted with HVAC equipment placement, aquarium glass installation, material handling, and specialized lifting operations in one of Syracuse’s most unique and logistically challenging construction environments.
Supporting the Mechanical Scope
Working alongside mechanical contractor Crosby Brownlie, Trimble Services was responsible for receiving, storing, delivering, and placing both indoor and outdoor mechanical equipment for the Syracuse Aquarium project.
One of the most challenging phases involved flying large indoor air handling unit (AHU) sections and boilers through a roof opening before the building envelope was fully enclosed. With limited access and tight working conditions, every lift required careful planning and close coordination between multiple trades to ensure equipment was safely positioned while maintaining the project’s construction schedule.
As construction progressed, Trimble Services also assisted with hanging and insulating large HVAC ductwork located above the aquarium’s main tank. This critical operation required the coordinated use of two cranes—one dedicated to hoisting the ductwork while the second supported a personnel basket, allowing crews to safely position and secure the material at elevation. The complexity of the lift, combined with the confined work area and the need for precise coordination, made it one of the most technically demanding phases of the project.
Assisting with Aquarium Tank Glass Installation
Trimble Services also supported Bon Ton Glass during the installation of aquarium tank glass panels weighing between 500 and 1,500 pounds.
Due to restricted access and small wall openings, traditional installation methods were not practical. Our team utilized gantries and chain falls to carefully rig, maneuver, and position the glass panels into place while maintaining precise control throughout the installation process.
Projects like this demonstrate the importance of specialized rigging solutions when working in confined spaces and sensitive construction environments.
Material Handling and Construction Support
In addition to mechanical and glazing support, Trimble Services worked alongside Hueber Breuer to assist with flying construction materials through roof openings and into the structure.
By providing safe and efficient material placement, our team helped keep construction moving while minimizing disruptions to other trades working throughout the project.
The Result
The Syracuse Aquarium project highlights the value of experienced crane services, rigging expertise, and project coordination when working on complex commercial construction projects.
Whether supporting HVAC installations, specialty glass placement, material handling, or industrial equipment moves, Trimble Services delivers dependable lifting and rigging solutions throughout Syracuse, Rochester, Oswego, Watertown, and the surrounding Upstate New York region.
Learn more about the Syracuse Aquarium project and its role in the ongoing redevelopment of Syracuse’s Inner Harbor.