Building down in San Francisco: A rare engineering challenge
MORRISTOWN, NJ, June 18, 2026 – In downtown San Francisco, Schindler Elevator Corporation is taking on a rare and complex challenge—extending nine elevators not upward, but downward at 201 Mission Street.
This one-of-a-kind modernization project is helping reimagine how people access a landmark high-rise, bringing the building’s lobby back to street level and improving the overall flow of movement for tenants and visitors
A complex engineering solution
Schindler teams are now working to extend all nine elevators down one floor—a process that involves carefully modifying existing infrastructure while maintaining performance and safety.
The scope of work includes:
- Extending elevator shafts, rails, and hoist ropes
- Reconfiguring cables and adding structural crossbeams
- Creating new shaft access points
- Integrating an updated version of Schindler PORT technology
- Adapting and modernizing control systems
Each elevator is being completed individually, allowing the building to remain operational while upgrades are underway.
Innovation without a blueprint
Projects of this nature are exceptionally rare. With no established blueprint to follow, the team is developing and testing solutions in real time, combining technical expertise with creative problem-solving. As Jeff Rooney, Schindler Elevator Foreman, noted:
In my 30 years in the elevator industry, I’ve never heard of such an intervention in a building this tall. My father and my uncles, who were all elevator mechanics, have never mentioned anything like this either. I’m really excited about completing this one-of-a-kind challenge.
The effort is supported by a diverse team of Schindler specialists from across the country, including technicians from California, Texas, and Hawaii. Their collaboration demonstrates the depth of expertise within Schindler’s network and reflects the company’s commitment to delivering tailored modernization solutions to meet complex project demands.
Looking ahead
Once complete, the modernization at 201 Mission Street will deliver a more intuitive and seamless experience for building occupants, improving the connection between the lobby and street level while enhancing accessibility throughout the property.
This work reflects Schindler’s ongoing commitment to reimagining what’s possible in elevator modernization and supporting buildings as they evolve to meet the needs of the cities around them.