A major residential redevelopment project near New York City’s Grand Central Terminal was at risk of structural failure, prompting an emergency response from authorities on Tuesday morning during the Midtown Manhattan rush hour.

The New York City Fire Department was alerted shortly before 8 a.m. following reports of falling bricks at 235 East 42nd Street, the former headquarters of pharmaceutical company Pfizer.

The building is currently being converted into a residential complex comprising more than 1,600 apartments, with the project scheduled for completion in 2027.

According to the city’s Department of Buildings, a site safety manager reported that a steel beam on the 21st floor had sustained significant damage. The Fire Department said two structural support columns inside the building had begun to buckle, while several upper floors were showing signs of settling.

Construction workers were immediately evacuated from the site, while authorities also ordered the precautionary evacuation of two neighbouring buildings at 225 and 221 East 43rd Street.

No injuries were reported.