Former School Tested for Asbestos

Article Added March 11th, 2006 - Print This Story - Bookmark This Story

A building that is up for demolition is one step closer to it’s end; the West Hazelton Borough Council has approved the former site of Encke Elementary School to be tested for asbestos.

The council has awarded JMI of Swoyersville the contract for the asbestos testing and report. A physical inspection of the former Encke Elementary will be performed first, followed by analysis and testing. A detailed report will be filed to the borough on the findings. The borough will solicit a new batch of bids to award the contract for asbestos removal if needed after the report is completed. Demolition bids will follow after the asbestos is correctly removed, and the site has been declared safe. It is hoped that the building will be removed by the summer time.

A multitude of bids were presented to the council for the Encke testing, each one being carefully considered before the contract was awarded. Every business was established for more than 10 years and were reputable; the lowest price of these competitive bids was $1,250 for 30 bulk samples performed by JMI. Other buildings in the area, including Hazleton High School and the Markle Building, were tested by the company, which is also familiar with Encke Elementary. A waiver for liability is being considered for the company, considering their familiarity with the area. It is not likely that more than 30 bulk samples will be needed for the asbestos testing; if more are found, then the borough has asked to be notified immediately.

Article Added March 11th, 2006 - Print This Story - Bookmark This Story