Extra Space Storage had the opportunity to expand an existing self storage property in Danvers, MA, this year. Located at 36 Popes Ln just off Newbury St and Andover St, the facility was a multi-level storage building consisting of indoor climate-controlled storage units and features like covered loading bays and elevator access. Though the Danvers storage facility had been serving the community well, there were discussions about whether or not the property was fully maximizing its available land.

The self storage property was situated on several acres, most of which were undeveloped. Extra Space Storage explored many alternatives to expand this property, including having conversations with adjoining neighbors about selling off a portion of the land. However, the conclusion the team reached was that the storage facility could add an outdoor building with drive-up access units to increase the rentable square footage, take full advantage of the land, and meet the demands of the local market.

As the Extra Space Storage team began its preparations for construction, they encountered an obstacle regarding the site’s poor soil. Despite being aware of soil issues in the area before launching this project, the team struggled to determine the full scope of just how much trouble the soil would cause during property expansion efforts.

“It was known prior to construction that there could be unsuitable soils and ledge on the site that might need to be removed, but there was no way to know the magnitude until we started excavation,” said Program Manager Peter McDaniel. “We budgeted an allowance to cover the cost of the potential removal of unsuitable soils, but there was not adequate time to complete this additional removal between REC approval and the winter weather. This was a known risk that was discussed prior to starting construction.”

Though the team faced extensive soil issues and a winter weather delay for construction, the expansion project was completed within 11 months with a projected result of 10.1% return on cost. Seventy-seven units were added to the facility, which now offers drive-up self storage in sizes 10×5 to 10×30 in addition to its existing indoor units.

Thanks to the Extra Space Storage Operations team, District Vice President Bob Parisi, District Manager Robert Agneta, and the local managers, the expansion of our self storage facility at Popes Ln was successful.

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