Beverly, Massachusetts’ new high school can’t be built until asbestos removed from old one

The new high school in Beverly, Massachusetts is going to cost about $66 million, even more if the kids receive an artificial turf sports stadium. The state of Massachusetts will pay at least half the cost of the project. The plans call for building the new school on the site of the old one, with the new school to open in time for the 2010 school year. But the old school can’t be demolished until the asbestos is taken out of it.

When old asbestos products such as those once used in schools are disturbed, the asbestos fibers are released into the surrounding breathing space, where they can be breathed in by those nearby. Getting the job done right and avoid dangerous exposures can be expensive. Indeed, the cost for removing the old high school’s asbestos will reach $2.5 to $3 million. But the cost is necessary: if asbestos fibers are trapped in the lungs, diseases such as asbestosis, lung cancer or mesothelioma may result.

For the full story, go to the Salem News.

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