Asbestos Removal Begins at Abandoned Powerhouse

August 14, 2006 - Nearly 30 years after it ceased operations, asbestos and other toxic materials will finally be removed from the former Michelin Powerhouse in Milltown, NJ, readying the building for demolition.

The Michelin Powerhouse site, which consists of the former powerhouse building, an adjacent 100,000 gallon above-ground oil storage tank, two large brick smokestacks, a steel water tower and the area between the powerhouse and the mill pond, has been a source of concern for many in this small, largely-industrial Central New Jersey town.

According to reports in several local newspapers, beginning in the late 1800's, the Powerhouse served as the power generating station for the surrounding industrial complex. In 1977, the industrial park was connected to the local power grid and the Powerhouse was abandoned and left to decay.

An Environmental Protection Agency inspection of the site revealed severely deteriorated asbestos-containing pipe and tank insulation falling from overhead tanks and piping and covering much of the floor. Samples of soil and ash were collected for analysis and indicated the presence of arsenic and lead.

The EPA will be overseeing the removal of the asbestos and other toxic materials and will also be sure that contaminated soil around the area of the site is removed as well.

“This building is an industrial relic from days gone by that has become a danger to the surrounding community after years of decay,” said Regional EPA Administrator Alan J. Steinberg. “Removing asbestos is a critical step that will allow the demolition of the building and, most importantly, allow the site to be returned to productive use.”