State law requires a “good faith inspection” for asbestos-containing materials (ACMs), lead-based paint, polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), and mold prior to any demolition or remodeling work. We know some of these materials are present, just not their extent or condition. Because our current project budget excludes abatement costs, this information is vital to fully scoping and costing the work to be done in Part I. 

While not quite complete, we’ve made progress on the hazmat issue.  Advance Environmental (AE), a local environmental consultant, conducted a hazmat inspection of the Sanctuary last month. We received their survey report on March 2nd. The survey results were mixed; no lead paint or PCBs were found, but friable ACMs are in the wall texture, and there are elevated mold spore counts. We’ve asked AE to further clarify some of its findings, better estimate the quantities to be abated, and also test the putty around stained glass windows for asbestos. As of this writing, we’re waiting for their response to that request.

Once we have that updated information, we can obtain an estimate from an abatement contractor, and in conjunction with FORMA Construction, determine the most cost-effective approach to hazmat abatement and its impact on the overall project budget. I hope to have that information for the April Chronicle, if not sooner.

In light of Governor Inslee’s stay at home order, the project team is now working from home and communicating by email and phone. We remain on track to apply for the Part I building permit in June, before the new, more stringent building code goes into effect.

Respectfully submitted,

Lou MacMillan