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Park Construction Halted after Asbestos Discovery |
Fri 5/8/2009
SALEM – The construction of a highly expected park in the Point was halted after the discovery of asbestos, a potential cancer-causing substance.
Asbestos particles were found in the soil of the vacant lot last month. After this surprising discovery, crews stopped working on the project.
The construction can be continued only after the removal of asbestos.
City Planner Lynn Duncan said that the city is planning to take away the top 1 to 3 feet of soil and to cap or cover it with clean fill. That work is supposed to be done by later this month. At the moment, city officials have no clue about the cost this job will add to the estimated amount for the project.
The lot has been unoccupied for decades. However, many power stations used it from 1890 to 1965, including former Salem Electrical Lighting Co. and the Essex Electrical Co. Duncan said that a portion of a power station that housed engines and generators and a coal shed were on the site until they were demolished between 1965 and 1970.
“The city received the property as a donation and then it was vacant,” Duncan said.
Park’s construction started in March. It was expected to finish by June, but now city officials have no idea when it will be done.