Built Into the American Story: EDA's Work Across the Region

Across Pennsylvania, New York and New Jersey, EDA Contractors has had the opportunity to help build, restore and protect projects connected to some of the region’s most recognizable institutions and landmarks. These places are more than buildings. They are part of the American story.

From historic structures and cultural destinations to community staples that continue to serve generations, each project represents the importance of craftsmanship, preservation and care.

Pennsylvania: Preserving America's Firsts and Foundations

Few regions reflect the country’s early history quite like Philadelphia. Across Pennsylvania, EDA’s work connects to several foundational American stories, including early military education, public service, conservation, and property protection.

Biddle Hall

Built in 1833, Biddle Hall was the central building of the former U.S. Naval Asylum. It remains one of the most significant surviving examples of early Greek Revival architecture in the United States and once housed both the first formal U.S. Naval Academy and an early regional naval hospital.

Last year, EDA roofers completed liquid-applied membrane roofing, while our Historical Restoration division installed the standing seam metal roof, helping preserve a structure that carries deep historical significance.

Philadelphia Zoo

The Philadelphia Zoo holds a special place in American history as the nation’s first zoo. When it opened in 1874, after a delay due to the Civil War, admission was just 25 cents. Since then, the zoo has welcomed generations of visitors and continues to serve as a prime spot in Philadelphia.

EDA recently completed work on a new exhibit at the zoo: Bear Country. Our crews installed standing seam shade structures, a new roofing system, downspouts, snow guards, and foundational waterproofing to help support the exhibit’s long-term performance.

The Philadelphia Contributionship

Founded in 1752 by Benjamin Franklin and his fellow firefighters, The Philadelphia Contributionship is the oldest property insurance company in the country. Its creation reflected an early American commitment to protecting homes, supporting neighbors and building stronger communities.

As an exterior envelope contractor, EDA’s work is rooted in protection. At The Philadelphia Contributionship, our team completed new slate and sheet metal work, including copper standing seam panels, flashing and a roof vent, helping preserve a historic property tied to one of the earliest examples of property protection in the nation.

New Jersey: Protecting Public Landmarks and Transportation History

Across New Jersey, EDA’s work has supported historic civic and transportation landmarks that continue to serve residents, commuters and visitors today.

New Jersey State House

Built in 1792, the New Jersey State House is the third-oldest state house in continuous legislative use in the United States and the most historic public building in the state of New Jersey.

EDA contributed steep slope roofing and waterproofing work to help protect this important public landmark for future generations.

Hoboken Ferry Terminal

Built in 1907 by the Delaware, Lackawanna and Western Railroad, Hoboken Ferry Terminal has played an important role in the region’s transportation history. In 1930, Thomas Edison was at the controls for the first departure of a regular-service electric multiple-unit train from Hoboken Terminal to Montclair.

EDA’s work at the terminal includes copper restoration across the facade, including new molding and stamping of ornate pieces. The project blends new and existing copper facade elements, while EDA masons also completed retaining wall work on site.

New York: Supporting One of America's Most Iconic Public Spaces

New York is home to some of the country’s most recognizable civic and cultural spaces, including Central Park, a landmark that has shaped urban life for generations.

Central Park Conservancy

Central Park was the first landscaped public park in the United States and remains the most visited urban park in the country. Construction was completed during the Civil War, and in 1984, Central Park Conservancy became the managing body of the park.

EDA’s work with the Central Park Conservancy, specifically The Davis Center at the Harlem Meer, features zinc roof panels installed along the skylight and roof fascia, with clean transitions where the roof meets stone walls and guardrails.

Craftsmanship That Carries History Forward

As the country prepares to celebrate 250 years, these projects remind us that history is not only preserved in museums or textbooks. It is found in the places people walk through, gather in, visit, protect and experience every day.

At EDA, we are honored to play a role in caring for these spaces across the region. Through roofing, waterproofing, masonry, metalwork, restoration and exterior envelope expertise, our teams help ensure these landmarks can continue serving their communities for generations to come.