Asbestos Survey of Scott Correctional Facility to Be Conducted

Before demoliton of the Robert Scott Correctional Facility can begin, Northville Township must ensure that the 13 buildings are free of asbestos.

The Northville Township Board of Trustees on Thursday night approved to award BDN Industrial Hygiene Consultants, Inc.—the low bidder—$19,975 to complete testing of the site.

The Board also decided to allocate the funds from the $57,625 it has from the Seven Mile Property. The Board said they also reserve the right to replenish the money allocated with money from the general fund.

The prison was built in the 1980s, and the survey will certify that there is not any asbestos in the floor or ceiling tiles. The survey is done by taking samples at various locations and then running the samples through a lab process.

"This prison was built right on the end of when the new laws were taking effect," said Township Manager Chip Snider. "We believe that it was built in accordance with the new law, but unfortunately we don't have proper evidence of that."

Up to 100 samples could be taken, but the process will not destruct the structural integrity of the buildings. The survey, including taking samples, analyzing them, and developing a report, is estimated to take three weeks.

Township Supervisor Bob Nix said he hopes to be able to bring a demolition contract before the board in March or April, so he would like the survey to be completed by then so the Township can continue to move forward.

Read More:

• Demolition of Scott Correctional Facility Could Begin in April