BMS Service and Upgrades at the Oculus: Revitalizing a Landmark

At the heart of Lower Manhattan, the Oculus at the World Trade Center stands as both a transportation hub and an architectural icon. Managed by Unibail-Rodamco-Westfield, the property supports a vast network of retail and transit systems under its soaring, winged structure. In early 2024, T.M. Bier & Associates (TMBA) was selected to take over BMS service operations for the Oculus.

Though initially a service-only engagement, the project quickly expanded into a broader system revitalization. TMBA’s team focused on making enhancements to communication wiring and reconfiguration of various components. These conditions, common in large and complex facilities, were addressed methodically by TMBA’s service technicians. Led by Patrick Christophel and Rich Brennan, the team worked diligently to stabilize operations and lay the groundwork for long-term reliability.

One of the most challenging aspects of the project was navigating the heightened security protocols. Each TMBA technician assigned to the site had to undergo a rigorous month-long background check before being cleared to work inside the building. Despite these logistical hurdles, TMBA maintained a steady workflow while keeping security protocols intact.

The building's existing Schneider Electric Continuum system is currently being upgraded to EcoStruxure, paired with TMBA’s advanced building analytics tools to enhance energy efficiency, occupant comfort, and system performance. With these upgrades in place, the system is now supporting smoother operations and better visibility for building staff—helping the facility perform to its full potential.

Close communication with Westfield’s leadership has been a cornerstone of the project's success. From urgent service calls to rapid controller replacements, TMBA prioritized responsiveness and transparency at every step. One significant win: condensing what was expected to be a month-long replacement effort into a much faster turnaround thanks to proactive logistics and resource planning.

With a reputation for reliability, technical excellence, and clear communication, TMBA continues to serve as a trusted partner at one of New York City’s most recognizable buildings.

Learn more about our BMS solutions at tmba.com!