In the previous thread, I note there is a difference of several orders of magnitude,e.g.~20 dollars/ sq ft. for a proposed building vs $2000 dollars/sq. ft for the building that was actually built. Something is not quite right-as that 2000 dollar figure sounds right for certain types of NYC construction.

I saw no mention of site prep (and associated costs) for either project.

Also took a look at the computerized estimating program that was cited. To my trained eye, that program looks like something a trained estimator would use-not a lay person. TB Means, who has published construction estimating handbooks for years-also has a software program. The acronym GIGO comes to mind when the subject of replacing an experienced person with a computer program is broached.

With all that said, I don't think the possibility exists of making an 'apples to apples' comparison on different projects situated in different parts of the country. I would say that even the basic specs. of the building(s)are the same.

The Morristown and Erie, along with SMS Rail Services (located in NJ) have come up with I believe could be an inexpensive solution for car storage. The best way I describe these things is 'fabric covered quonset huts'-not dissimilar to the way greenhouses are constructed. The M&E erected one these as an adjunct to their own shop, while SMS has a freestanding example large enough for a Baldwin switching locomotive.

One of the virtues of this approach is that (based upon my own experience
with outbuildings) is that these structures are considered 'temporary.' As such, one is probably able to short-circuit the entire issue of permitting. Additionally, as temporary buildings, they may be exempt from property taxes.

With the money saved, one can building a ten foot, barbed wire fence around the site-to keep the 'vermin' out. As for the expected life of the plastic, only the supplier can answer that question.

Dave

On the earlier thread, this comment was made re: Western Railway Museum:



Based on our current project at National Capital Trolley Museum, the $1000/foot of car length is a decent standard. We are building a three track barn, capable of holding 3 double truck streetcars on each track. At an average length of 45 feet each, we'd have 3 cars x 45 feet x 3 tracks or 405 feet of car space. At $1000/ft that is $405,000. Our project to construct a standard steel warehouse with a brick facade is estimated at just over $500,000, about $80,000 of which is for the "upgrade" masonry facade. $500K - $80K is $420K. Close enough as a ballpark number for me.

Using the above standard consider that an acquisition such as Erie 5012 or your typical surplus Septa PCC comes with an unfunded liability of $1000/ft for that building that you'll need someday.

Wesley

Just a few real world Numbers. Finishing up my garage.
30 x 40 Steel building with 16 foot free span ceeling, 8" fiber crete floor with rewire and bar, r21 insulation. 12 X18 roll up door, man door , 100 amp service, 10 8 foot floresent lights, outlets evey 8 feet, Gas radiant heat, Water, Remote powered door opener, 20 X24 driveway 6" with rewire fiber crete. Side walk around the side and to the back door. 36" deep footers, limestone base (24 inches) White with green trim.
TOTAL Cost,just under 28,000.00 (everything is new) I did most of the work myself I did pay for alot of help with the crete. Overkill for storage but with 30 more feet in length and 2 to 4 more feet of roof a great shop for restoration work. Trade the crete for more length and just 2 feet of roof and it's affordable storage. I perfer steel to pole barns and the cost of kits are not that much different when you make it apples to apples. ( the differance in my case was 1,200 dollars)
Equipemt rental for a man basket is included in the number. I did use a all terain towmotor from work. I'm not in the building trades, I run a locomotive shop and did not horse trade. I did pay guys from work that helped me once in a while. This too is included in the cost.
You will pay the General contractor allot for his work and time. Do the leg work and shoping yourself and save allot of money.
I did find out one thing after the fact. Beware of who you buy the building from. the company I bought it from claimed they had there own factory, well they lied. What really toke the cake was about 4 months after I bought the building(it was late showing up) It showed up with Nucor plans. If that wasn;t bad enough in the time waiting We landed a contract serviceing Nucor's locomotives. I asked and they told me they would have sold to me direct and saved me quite abit of money. Talk about DOOHHH!
If your determined and don't mind some sweat equity you can build a nice building very affordably.