Cornell University, Martha Van Rensselaer North Building Demolition

The State University Construction Fund and Cornell University demolished the north wing of Martha Van Rensselaer Hall due to structural concerns that rendered the building unusable.  As a result of the building being vacant with the utilities terminated for several years, moisture was allowed to penetrate into the structure resulting in significant mold growth.  Watts investigated and tested for environmental hazards and prepared environmental remediation design plans and specifications for the abatement of the identified hazardous materials.  

Watts completed a Phase I Environmental Site Assessment documenting environmental historical conditions at the property.  This was followed by asbestos-containing materials (ACM), lead-based paint (LBP), hazardous waste/contaminated materials (HW/CM) and polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) in caulk building surveys.  In addition, Watts conducted wipe sampling and laboratory testing of lab hoods and ducts for residual chemical waste products.  From our findings, Watts prepared environmental remediation/abatement design specifications and drawings as part of the demolition bid package.

During the environmental remediation portion of the project, Watts provided oversight to ensure the compliance with the contact documents and current regulations.  Watts was responsible for conducting the bi-weekly progress meeting and distributing meeting minutes.