Comcast Technology Center Delays Topping To Investigate Possible Cracks

Comcast's Innovation & Technology Center will have to wait on topping off until a series of "indications" of steel cracks can be investigated.

The $1.5B tower, set to be Comcast's second single-tenant skyscraper in Philadelphia and the tallest building in the U.S. outside of New York and Chicago, is still on track for completion in 2018. The cracks were found in the two-story frame that will house the mechanical and lighting apparatus, the Philadelphia Inquirer reports.

Developer Liberty Property Trust, overseeing the tower's completion for Comcast, has paused construction on that portion to determine whether the indications are surface markings or true cracks — "not a catastrophic issue," according to Liberty Regional Director John Gattuso. Due to the amount of work remaining on the rest of the building, the completion date is not expected to be affected.

If there are cracks, they can reportedly be remedied by drilling rods into the steel to prevent spreading. Any repairs would be paid for by the steel supplier, Charlotte-based SteelFab Inc. The markings were discovered as part of a weekslong inspection of the building's steel components, which is ongoing.

When completed, the tower will contain offices and research facilities for technological advancements for the communications giant, as well as a Four Seasons hotel, television studios for Comcast's local NBC and Telemundo affiliates, and one condominium, to be owned and occupied by CEO Brian Roberts and his wife, Aileen.