Concerns Rise Over Asbestos During Trumbull Center Construction

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News Summary

Local residents express alarm over asbestos findings during the Trumbull Center construction project. DEEP and local officials assure community health safety.

Concerns Rise Over Asbestos During Trumbull Center Construction

The recent demolition of buildings in Trumbull Center, which began on December 17, 2024, has stirred alarm among local residents after a complaint regarding asbestos was filed. The mixed-use development at 900 White Plains Road is at the heart of scrutiny, as investigations are undertaken by the Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP) following the complaint from a concerned resident.

Public Health At Risk?

In an official response, First Selectman Vicki Tesoro has publicly addressed the community’s worries about potential asbestos exposure. She emphasized the critical nature of community safety and health, providing reassurance on the town’s website. Asbestos, known for its fire and heat resistance properties, has long been a concern in construction due to its associated health risks, especially for vulnerable groups such as construction workers.

Despite the alarming finding, DEEP reported that at the site, no friable materials—the kind that can easily become airborne—were detected. Tesoro described the discovery as “unfortunate and upsetting,” but noted that there currently appeared to be no significant public health threats.

Investigation and Clean-Up Efforts

The DEEP and the state Department of Public Health are actively monitoring the ongoing investigation and clean-up operations. Following the confirmation of asbestos, Trumbull Center LLC has responded by employing an environmental consultant and a licensed asbestos contractor, initiating remediation efforts to address the situation effectively.

Delayed construction at the site is a major concern for Trumbull Center LLC, which aims to resolve the remediation issue without suffering significant setbacks to the project timeline. As the state continues to investigate the origins and handling of the asbestos material found on-site, residents and businesses are left anxiously waiting for updates.

A Community Meeting Request

First Selectman Tesoro has requested that DEEP hold a community meeting to discuss the situation further. However, DEEP has yet to commit to organizing such an event, leaving residents seeking clarification about their health and safety in a state of uncertainty.

The Development Project

The mixed-use development, which the Planning and Zoning Commission approved in April 2024, is set to offer 50 one- and two-bedroom apartments alongside retail spaces on the ground floor. Notably, 10% of the apartments will be designated as affordable housing, addressing an ongoing need in the community.

As the project faces delays, the community is reminded of the importance of adhering to health safety regulations, particularly when it comes to harmful substances like asbestos. With expert warnings regarding the serious health risks associated with asbestos exposure, residents remain vigilant about their surroundings, especially those involved in construction and emergency services.

Demolition of Other Structures

In addition to the issues surrounding the Trumbull Center project, the community has witnessed the demolition of the former Del Mar Florist shop located at 6400 Main Street. This site had been abandoned for years and was deemed irreparable due to its dilapidated condition. Although some historically significant materials from the shop were preserved, the removal was seen as a necessary step to enhance the overall aesthetic of Main Street.

The situation at Trumbull Center serves as a reminder of the ongoing legacy of asbestos in construction, emphasizing the need for stringent safety measures and transparent communication between officials and the public. As construction resumes, the health and safety of the community remain at the forefront of concerns amidst the rebuilding effort.