In 1994, EXTECH was selected to replace deteriorated industrial windows at the 207th Street Maintenance Facility in Upper Manhattan—a large, site operated by New York City Transit. The original steel sash windows had significantly deteriorated, creating the need for a modern solution that could provide ventilation, introduce daylight, and endure the daily demands of a working transit maintenance hub.
To meet these challenges, EXTECH installed its patented TECHVENT 5300 system—polycarbonate window assemblies with fixed bottom panels and top-hinged operable panels above. The operable sections were configured in continuous 150-foot-long wings and opened using rack-and-pinion hardware designed for smooth, reliable performance. If placed side by side, the new EXTECH windows would stretch more than four miles—underscoring the scale and complexity of the installation.
The system offered practical advantages suited to the facility’s needs. The operable skylights could remain open during normal rainfall, allowing consistent airflow even in inclement weather. Combined with long-span operability and durable framing, the system supported better ventilation and day-to-day function across the facility’s large maintenance bays.
It highlighted the type of durable, daylight-oriented solution EXTECH has developed for industrial retrofits—balancing functionality, longevity, and ease of operation in demanding settings.
This installation remains a standout example of EXTECH’s ability to deliver performance-driven systems at scale—one of many legacy projects we’re proud to spotlight as we celebrate 50 years of innovation in architectural design.
