Summit's Tier Garage on Springfield Ave. Closes Sections for $3.3M Repair

The Tier Garage on Springfield Avenue in Summit will begin repair and preventive-maintenance work on Monday, August 17, 2026, following a $3.3 million contract that the Common Council unanimously approved. Certain sections of the garage will close as construction progresses, but six other Summit parking facilities will remain available for permit parking throughout the project.

Union County Life covers Summit municipal government, infrastructure projects, and public services across all 21 Union County municipalities.

Work Schedule and Details

The repair and preventive-maintenance project will operate on a consistent schedule: Monday through Saturday, 7 a.m. to 7 p.m., weather permitting. The city will continue to monitor weather conditions and issue updates if the schedule changes significantly.

Different sections of the Tier Garage will close as work progresses, allowing the city to focus repairs on specific areas while maintaining access to portions of the facility where possible.

Parking Alternatives

Summit residents and workers should note that six other city parking facilities will remain available for permit parking during the Tier Garage project:

• Broad Street Garage and East Lot

• Chestnut Lot

• Elm Street and Elm Street Lot

• Sampson Lot

• Maple Street K-Lot

• Railroad Avenue Lot

These facilities provide alternative parking throughout the city during the construction period.

Contact and Questions

Summit residents with questions about the project, parking alternatives, or schedule changes should contact Summit Parking Services:

• Phone: 908-522-5100

• Email: parking@cityofsummit.org

Project Background

The repairs address structural issues identified during a June 2025 inspection. That inspection found water penetration and surface deterioration on the upper deck of the Tier Garage. The city temporarily closed the third and fourth levels at that time; lower levels remained open.

The June 2025 findings led to additional evaluation and comprehensive planning for the broader repair and preventive-maintenance project now beginning.

Contract and Approval Process

The Common Council unanimously approved the $3.3 million contract, which represents a significant capital investment in the city's infrastructure. The contract's path to approval began April 16 when the city opened 10 bids for the project. Eight bids were determined to be responsive and eligible for consideration.

At the Council's July 7 meeting, Councilman Dan Crisafulli introduced the resolution awarding the contract to the lowest responsive bidder. "The submitted lowest responsive bidder was selected. The award is now being made due to the availability of funds," Crisafulli said.

The Council voted unanimously to approve the resolution.

Capital Project Priority

Council President Claire Toth had previously identified the garage rehabilitation as part of the city's capital work for 2026. "We'll complete sidewalk projects on Ashland Road and elsewhere, and we'll rehab the Tier Garage on Springfield Avenue," Toth said.

The Tier Garage rehabilitation represents a significant component of Summit's capital improvement program for the year.

Historical Context

The Tier Garage previously underwent structural repairs in 2016, which resulted in partial weekend closures at that time. The current project represents a more comprehensive maintenance and repair effort addressing both structural and weatherproofing concerns.

Community Impact

Summit residents and workers who rely on the Tier Garage for parking should plan ahead and utilize the six alternative parking facilities during the construction period. The city's coordination of available parking resources helps minimize disruption to the community during this necessary infrastructure work.

Find more Summit municipal news, infrastructure projects, and public services on Union County Life.

Photo Credit: City of Summit

FAQ

Q: When do the Tier Garage repairs begin?
A: Monday, August 17, 2026.

Q: What are the work hours?
A: Monday through Saturday, 7 a.m. to 7 p.m., weather permitting. No work on Sundays.

Q: How long will the project last?
A: The article does not specify the total project duration. Contact Summit Parking Services at 908-522-5100 for timeline information.

Q: Will the Tier Garage be completely closed?
A: No. Certain sections will close as construction progresses, but portions will remain open. Alternative parking facilities are available.

Q: What parking facilities can I use during the project?
A: Six city parking facilities are available: Broad Street Garage and East Lot, Chestnut Lot, Elm Street and Elm Street Lot, Sampson Lot, Maple Street K-Lot, and Railroad Avenue Lot.

Q: How much does this project cost?
A: Approximately $3.3 million.

Q: Why are these repairs being done?
A: A June 2025 inspection found water penetration and surface deterioration on the upper deck of the garage. The repairs address these structural and weatherproofing concerns.

Q: Who approved this project?
A: The Summit Common Council unanimously approved the contract on July 7, 2026.

Q: How should I contact the city about parking questions?
A: Contact Summit Parking Services at 908-522-5100 or parking@cityofsummit.org.