Bidding open for million-dollar asbestos removal project at former school

As part of a rebuilding program, the Youngstown, Ohio school district is planning to demolish almost 20 area schools. At one building, the former site of the Princeton School, officials say that removing the asbestos present in the school prior to demolition may cost as much $1 million.

The removal, handling, and disposal of asbestos-containing materials are a serious matter that falls under regulations set forth by state and federal officials. There are stringent rules governing asbestos, which are due to the deleterious health effects it can have. Exposure to asbestos, even in small amounts, may cause death.

Asbestos-related illnesses include mesothelioma, a rare and extremely aggressive cancer that can kill within months or weeks of being diagnosed. While the average mesothelioma patient may perish within 24 months of being diagnosed, many others go on to live for many years after being told that they are ill.

The school board is currently seeking bids for the asbestos removal project. The high range for bids is expected to be $1,250,000, significantly more than at other schools in the area that are being prepared for demolition. The demolition of these area schools is part of a $190 million school rebuilding program, of which 80 percent is being financed by the Ohio School Facilities Commission. 17 schools will be totally demolished, while 13 more will be renovated, expanded, or replaced.

It is hoped that due to the current economic downtown, many companies will submit extraordinarily low bids for these projects, a move which will bolster the local economy and save the school district a great deal of money.