urbanSTL

^....^^

I did not see any sign of electricity, other than what you see in the pic with the lightbulb( in the 'natural caves'). The pics with the pipes were taken in areas closer to the 'lagering caves'. It seemed to get more natural, the deeper into the caves we got. I did notice fire sprinklers near the 'lagering caves' (as pictured), but not at all in the 'natural caves'. One other factor that has to be considered when discussing any 'modern' infrastructure down there, is the fact that maybe the Lemps did not add a particular thing, such as sprinklers. Maybe International Shoe installed something. Maybe other businesses over the years were required by the SLFD to put in sprinklers. Who knows.
I did see that the vaudeville theatre had a track light of some sort. It was still visible, hanging from the ceiling. It is actually one of the few things still remaining from the old theatre. The spiral staircase was still there, as pictured.
Regarding ventilation, the air was fine down there, until we got deep inside the 'natural caves'. It was harder to breathe, but that could have been from the long walk in or thinner air, but that was very deep in. At no point was it uncomfortable. I have been more uncomfortable hiking at elevation, in the mountains. Not an issue.

I actually have a lot of faith in Shashi Palamand who owns the complex. From personal interaction and tours of the complex, I can tell you that he cares deeply about the buildings and a successful redevelopment. He spent many millions a few years ago to rebuild and stabilize the malt house (or was it the stock house?). If I remember correctly,he said that the internal wooden structure of the building had burned long ago and then just decomposed so the brick walls were not properly braced and were in danger of total collapse. The building itself has no windows, so it will be difficult to redevelop and re-purpose using (at least using historic tax credits), but instead of just tearing it down and being done with it, Shashi said that he thought it was critical to the "skyline" of the complex and the overall feel of the place. So instead, he spent millions to stabilize a building that he may never be able to do anything with. The roof damage that the pictures show is distressing, but overall I have utmost confidence that the owners really do appreciate the history of the complex, the intrinsic value of the architecture, and the opportunity for a mind-boggling redevelopment. The problem is really just that the brewery is SO big that redevelopment would require probably hundreds of millions AND a huge number of tenants.

I'm glad to hear Mr. Palamand cares about the history and integrity of the complex. I think it is one of the most significant properties in the City, still undeveloped. I think the only option may be to piece it out and develop it, if the job is too big for one developer.
I'd like to see him close off exposed areas of the roof, broken windows and holes in the buildings. Just boarding them up, may preserve the structural integrity from corrosion and decay. The structural steel beams look like they are in good shape, ouside of some surface rust. Obviously the elements are really taking their toll. If you have faith in Shashi, I feel better about the future of the complex.

PS_ Please IM me if the Landmarks Assoc. ever puts on a tour of the complex. I'd love to tour it more extensively than I have in the past. As it decays, tours become more difficult. Areas become dangerous and less accessible. Hopefully, that won't be the case. thanks!

Way cool! Always wanted to get a glimpse of those. Thanks for the link.