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EPA Warns of Contamination Risks in Proposed Demolition Plan for Former Deutsche Bank Building

Strategic Insights

— 1 min read

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has expressed significant concerns over a proposed demolition plan for the former Deutsche Bank building, located opposite Ground Zero, citing inadequate measures to prevent the release of harmful contaminants. The agency has warned that the current plan does not provide sufficient safeguards against the potential release of asbestos, lead, trade center dust, and other hazardous materials. Studies have shown that the 40-story building, which has not been occupied since 9/11, contains high levels of these contaminants.

Key Takeaways:

  • The EPA has criticized the proposed demolition plan for failing to provide adequate measures to prevent the release of contamination, citing concerns over the health risks posed by fine particles in Lower Manhattan.
  • The agency has called for the sampling of particles 2.5 microns in diameter, which are believed to pose the greatest health risk, and has urged the inclusion of air monitors in residential areas, schools, and commercial areas.
  • The EPA has also expressed concerns over the proposed debris chute, saying it could be a source of dust release, and has criticized the draft plan for lacking information on how to address mold and bacterial contamination.
  • The agency has stated that the development corporation and contractor Gilbane will be liable for mismanagement of hazardous waste under the law.
  • Critics, including Representative Jerrold Nadler and David M. Newman of the New York Committee for Occupational Safety and Health, have praised the EPA's comments and called for further action to improve the plan.

Statistics:

  • The building in question is a 40-story structure located at 130 Liberty Street.
  • The draft demolition plan was released on December 13, and the EPA has emphasized that concerns of government regulators will be factored into the final version of the plan.
  • The EPA has called for the sampling of particles 2.5 microns in diameter, which are 1/30 the width of a human hair.
  • The agency has recommended the placement of air monitors in residential areas, schools, and commercial areas around the building.

Sources:

  • Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)
  • Lower Manhattan Development Corporation
  • Gilbane Building Company
  • Federal Register
  • The New York Times

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