Essential Machines

The Project

The South Pier project in Tempe, Arizona, is on track to become the future of waterfront living in the greater Phoenix area. Included in the development along the south bank of the Tempe Town Lake are 21-story tall residential housing and commercial business towers.

Now entering the second phase of construction, three towers are currently being built for the mixed-use development. The completion date is projected for 2026.

The Challenges

On the South Pier project jobsite, with crane tower foundations located at the bottom of a subterranean parking level, planning and coordination with Clayco, the construction contractor, is critically important.

For this project, Clayco required two cranes at a significant freestanding hook height and a third crane that was taller, requiring a tie and climbing frame.

The project’s location also presented challenges when it comes to a prominent overswing requiring accurate zoning and safety on the construction site.

The Cranes

Stafford Tower Cranes supplied to Clayco by Stafford Crane Group for the South Pier project include STF 8041TL models that would be anchored to a concrete foundation. One of the tower cranes was specified for 332 feet with a climbing frame above the single tie. All three cranes have a 70,550-pound maximum load capacity rating, with a tip load of 9,040 pounds.

During the tower crane erection process, the Stafford Crane Group team used a Tadano AC 7.450-1 all terrain model as an assist crane. All three tower cranes were erected and ready for use in six days.

Using its own climbing system, Stafford Crane Group also undertook the climbing operation for Clayco.

Reaching New Heights

The STF 8041TL’s robust capabilities ensured that safety remained a top priority throughout the construction process at the South Pier project site. Rigorous attention to safety protocols, combined with the expertise of the crane operators, helps avoid risks and ensures a safe working environment for all personnel involved.

Stafford Crane Group, headquartered in Phoenix, Arizona, offers a range of tower crane models with multiple options of hammerhead, flat top, luffer, static or traveling, and external or internal climbing to meet customer project needs. The cranes are available on a bare rental or manned basis, and the company provides all transportation, erection and dismantling, jump, inspection, maintenance and repair services.