Business Details
35 Years
experience
Expert Sign Structural Engineering Services
Since 1991, R. Scott Lewis has dedicated itself exclusively to sign structural engineering, building a reputation as a leader in this specialized field. Our team of licensed engineers and associates brings decades of combined experience in structural analysis, design, and mechanics, supported by a network of consultants in geotechnical engineering, metallurgy, and OSHA compliance. We serve clients nationwide, delivering innovative solutions for projects ranging from historic Times Square signage to modern LED conversions. Our expertise extends to zoning analysis, structural design, field inspections, and construction-phase support, ensuring compliance with evolving building codes and safety standards.With a focus on precision and client collaboration, we address complex challenges like weight limitations for digital displays and structural adaptations for aging infrastructure. Our portfolio includes over 80% of Times Square sign structures, reflecting our commitment to engineering excellence in high-impact environments. We maintain active licenses in six states and adhere to rigorous quality assurance protocols throughout every project lifecycle.
Services
Structural Design
Zoning Analysis
Field Services
LED Conversions
Construction Support
Details
- Year established: 1991
Highlights and features
- We focus exclusively on sign structural engineering with 30+ years of specialized experience
- Our team includes licensed engineers in six states with deep Times Square expertise
- We maintain a network of consultants for metallurgy, geotechnical engineering, and OSHA compliance
- We've designed over 80% of Times Square sign structures since 1991
- Our engineers perform field inspections to ensure exact compliance with design specifications
Services
Structural Design
Our structural design service creates durable, code-compliant sign frameworks tailored to specific project requirements. We collaborate with fabricators to optimize assembly efficiency while maintaining aesthetic vision. Our engineers address unique challenges like wind loads, seismic factors, and material limitations for both new installations and retrofits.
Zoning Analysis
We conduct detailed zoning evaluations to determine sign placement feasibility and regulatory compliance. Our analysis includes location assessments, height restrictions, and documentation to streamline permitting processes. This service helps clients avoid costly revisions by identifying code requirements early in project planning stages.
Field Services
Our field services ensure construction adheres to design specifications through on-site inspections and compliance verification. We assess structural integrity, safety protocols, and building code adherence during installation. This includes remediation of OSHA violations and Department of Building-required assessments for existing structures.
LED Conversions
We specialize in converting traditional signs to energy-efficient LED displays while addressing weight and structural challenges. Our solutions maintain visual impact while improving functionality and reducing maintenance costs. We identify optimal conversion paths that balance technical requirements with budget considerations.
Construction Support
Our construction-phase support provides continuous technical guidance from bidding through completion. We review shop drawings, resolve field questions, and coordinate with contractors to ensure accurate implementation of design specifications. This service maintains project timelines while upholding engineering standards.
People
R. Scott Lewis
President
With over 40 years as a licensed structural engineer, Scott founded the firm in 1991 after studying at Yale and MIT. He specializes in sign structures and holds licenses in six states.
Sharon Yao
Senior Associate
Sharon brings 25+ years of experience in structural modeling and sign engineering calculations. She joined the firm in 1998 after teaching theoretical mechanics in China.
John Swaby
Drafter
John has industry expertise since the 1980s, specializing in plan preparation and zoning regulations. He holds certifications in construction management and OSHA compliance.
Renee Rajappa
Associate
Renee offers 20+ years of structural engineering experience, including diagnostics and sign structure analysis. She holds a Master's degree from West Virginia University and NY/NV licenses.
Questions
What types of sign structures do you specialize in?
We specialize in all types of commercial sign structures including LED displays, static signs, mechanical animations, and 3D sculptures.
How long have you been engineering Times Square signage?
We've designed over 80% of Times Square sign structures since 1991, including the New Year's Eve ball support system.
Can you help with zoning compliance for new signage?
Yes, we provide comprehensive zoning analysis to determine project viability and prepare necessary documentation.
Do you handle both design and field inspections?
Yes, we manage complete projects from structural design through field inspections and construction-phase support.
What locations do you serve?
While based in NYC, we work nationwide with licenses in six states and projects from Boston to Denver.
Can you convert existing signs to LED displays?
Yes, we specialize in LED conversions that address weight challenges while maintaining structural integrity.
Reviews (1)
Colton
Aug 15, 2019
Report
Scott Lewis and his team are the absolute best structural engineers around! He has been a leader in the business and is THE reason that Times Square is one of country's greatest landmarks.
