Trumbull Center Asbestos Update: Community Concerns Alleviated

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News Summary

First Selectman Vicki Tesoro announces that the asbestos threat at Trumbull Center has been addressed, alleviating community concerns.

Trumbull Center Asbestos Update: Community Concerns Alleviated

First Selectman Reports No Immediate Threat

The much-discussed asbestos situation at Trumbull Center has seen a significant turnaround. First Selectman Vicki Tesoro has officially announced on the town’s website that there is no longer a threat of asbestos at the 900 White Plains Road construction site. This follows a thorough investigation by the Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP), which confirmed hazardous asbestos was present, raising alarms among local residents.

Investigation and Findings

The initial alarm was sounded by Trumbull resident Chris Pettinella, who lodged a complaint that led DEEP to conduct a detailed investigation. Their findings revealed that asbestos was indeed present at the site, specifically noting that it had been “ground up and used as fill.” Thankfully, the investigation did not uncover any friable materials—those that could crumble and release asbestos fibers into the air. Experts state that no friable asbestos significantly alleviates public health concerns tied to the infamous mineral, notorious for its connection to severe health risks like mesothelioma and lung cancer.

Current Status of the Site

After confirming the safety of the site, DEEP secured the area to prevent any potential hazards affecting local residents. The cleanup operation is now in full swing, managed by Trumbull Center LLC, which is owned by Peter Dinardo Enterprises. To ensure that remediation is thorough and compliant with all state and federal regulations, the company engaged both an environmental consultant and a licensed asbestos contractor.

Oversight is being provided by DEEP’s Emergency Response Unit and Solid Waste Division, a collaborative effort aimed at not only cleaning the current site but also resolving any lingering environmental concerns. Current estimates suggest that this closure effort will conclude within a six-week timeframe.

Construction Delays Ahead

While remediation is underway, the timeline for the previously anticipated construction of a five-story mixed-use development has been delayed. Originally set to commence in spring 2024, the project now hinges on the successful completion of site cleanup prior to any construction activities resuming.

Attorney Raymond Rizio, representing Trumbull Center LLC, assures that the developers are actively addressing these site issues to mitigate further delays. Plans for the development include a mix of 50 one- and two-bedroom apartments, amenity spaces, dedicated retail storefronts, and a percentage of affordable housing units.

Community Engagement on Health Concerns

Amidst the ongoing situation, the need for community involvement has not gone unnoticed. Tesoro has emphasized the importance of addressing public concerns, calling for DEEP to conduct a community forum to share information and gather input from local residents. However, as of now, DEEP has not made any commitments to facilitate such a request.

Remaining Investigations

Furthermore, the source of the asbestos waste remains a mystery, with DEEP still conducting inquiries. Both the DEEP and the Connecticut Department of Public Health are maintaining active monitoring of the cleanup process. Should it become necessary, they stand ready to implement further remediation efforts.

The Trumbull community remains on alert, with many residents understandably anxious about the potential health risks associated with asbestos. Tesoro has reassured constituents that public health is a top priority, urging vigilance and gratitude for the resident who first reported the issue, enabling it to be addressed swiftly.

As work continues at the Trumbull Center, the community hopes for a swift resolution that fosters both development and safety.