Particle.news
Download on the App Store

Empire Towers in Glen Burnie Remains Unsafe After Unpermitted Garage Work

County officials say damage to load-bearing columns discovered during construction has forced a wide exclusion zone and will keep access closed until engineered shoring stabilizes the building.

Overview

  • A 911 caller led to the evacuation after unpermitted work in the underground garage caused ceilings to sag, exposed rebar and a partial floor shift on July 9.
  • Anne Arundel County has set a 150-foot safety perimeter and closed nearby lanes to protect a potential collapse zone around the 10-story office tower.
  • The building owner has hired a licensed structural engineering firm but contractors cannot safely assess most of the garage until shoring is installed.
  • Officials estimate roughly 10 days to install structural supports once remediation begins, while dozens of vehicles remain trapped and tenants and nearby businesses face lost income.
  • The county says the owner is responsible for repairs and that the Department of Inspections and Permits will review any unpermitted work while a new county webpage and relief grants starting at $2,500 offer information and aid.