July 8th, 2005

The Photech Mill in Williamstown on Cole Avenue is scheduled for demolition. The roof of the building collapsed around two years ago, and has actually been abandoned for around sixteen years. The demolition is due to take place in August. However, the levels of asbestos in the building are raising concerns.

The demolition will cost over $800,000, and is being sorted out by the Environmental Protection Agency. The collapsed parts of the building are those that pose the asbestos hazard, and authorities are concerned about the demolition contaminating the air in the surrounding area and exposing people to the dangers of asbestos exposure.

One of the co-ordinators for the project, Dan Wainberg, stated: "As the pile deteriorates, there is a potential for asbestos to be released into the air." He added that further concerns included the danger of the collapse contaminating the nearby Hoosic River with debris. "Being close to the river is certainly a concern. We'll make sure the demolition is conducted in a controlled manner, so the building is pulled away from the river," he said.