Downtown state office tower needs immediate repairs to avoid ‘catastrophic failure’

The state-owned William Donald Schaefer Tower — which holds a satellite office for Gov. Wes Moore and several agencies — is in severe disrepair and certain parts could be facing “catastrophic failure” that would result in the building having to be shut down. Decay at the 37-year-old structure include failing HVAC systems and damage to the underground parking garage, according to an emergency procurement request filed as part of the Dec. 13 state Board of Public Works agenda.