CHARLES TAYLOR HELPS SAVE CITY OF ASPEN $8.5M IN STRUCTURAL REPAIRS SETTLEMENT
The City of Aspen and the Aspen Pitkin County Housing Authority (APCHA) faced a high-profile lawsuit concerning structural issues at the Centennial affordable housing complex. The Charles Taylor Engineering Technical Services (CTETS) team was engaged to provide an independent cost assessment and expert structural design review to support the clients. Charles Taylor’s involvement played a key role in resolving this decade-long legal dispute.
Challenge
The Centennial Homeowners Association filed suit against the City of Aspen, APCHA, and Pitkin County, alleging long-standing structural defects in the 92-unit affordable housing complex. The claims included water intrusion, structural deterioration, and mold concerns that raised questions about long-term safety and livability.
As the case progressed, the claimant proposed significant changes to deed restrictions and presented a repair estimate for approximately $16 million. With financial exposure and public interest at stake, the matter required a clear, objective evaluation of the proposed repairs to support resolution.
Solution
The Charles Taylor Engineering Technical Services team provided technical expertise across two core areas. A detailed cost evaluation was conducted by the CTETS building consultant to challenge the accuracy and appropriateness of the $16 million estimate submitted by the claimant. In parallel, a structural engineer from the CTETS team conducted a design review to assess which elements were necessary to address the identified building deficiencies and which proposed repairs extended beyond what was structurally required. This work established a defensible scope and cost of repairs, helping guide negotiations and shape the final settlement. The case ultimately resolved for $7.5 million, resulting in savings for the client ofapproximately $8.5 million.
Summary
The Charles Taylor Engineering Technical Services team played a pivotal role in resolving a complex, decade-long legal dispute involving significant structural issues at an affordable housing complex. Through expert detailed cost analysis and design review, the team helped reduce the claimant’s $16 million estimate to a final settlement of $7.5 million. This 53% savings limited financial exposure and ensured that essential repairs could proceed with clarity, accountability, and technical precision. This outcome reflects Charles Taylor’s commitment to delivering trusted expertise and exceptional service in support of complex challenges.
