FIRE ESCAPE LTR @ 217 & 221 ESSEX STREET CITY OF SALEM, MASSACHUSETTS
fi BUILDING DEPARTMENT
1 98 WASHINGTON STREET,2ND FLOOR
TEL. (978)745-9595
KIMBERLEY DRISCOLL
MAYOR THOMAS ST.PIERRE
DIRECTOR OF PUBLIC PROPERTY/BUILDING COMMISSIONER
June 27,2019
Vu Alexander
Sousa Design Architects, Inc.
81 Boylston Street
Brookline,MA 02445
RE: Fire Escapes-217&221 Essex Street, Salem
Dear Mr.Alexander:
Thank you for meeting with me recently to review the plans for 217 and 221 Essex Street. As we
discussed,the existing fire escapes located on the south elevation of 217 Essex Street and on the west
elevation of 221 Essex Street are in deteriorated condition and do not meet the current building code.
Due to their condition and noncompliance with current building code requirements,the fire escapes
should be removed from the two buildings as part the planned project and an alternative means of egress
should be developed. In their existing condition the fire escape pose as a safety concern for the building's
future tenants as well as the public. The new egress for the building should meet current code
requirements, including being enclosed.
I look forward to reviewing your plans for the new enclosed secondary means of egress_for 217 and 221
Essex Street.
Sincerely,
C-40-vl 1 k/ I
Thomas St. Pierre
Inspectional Services Director