CHICAGO (WBBM NEWSRADIO) -- City contractors have tried to make quick work of old problem at Chicago City Hall: asbestos.
The Department of Assets, Information, and Services had planned to use the City Council’s summer recess to change the flooring, upgrade electrical service, and improve accessibility in the council chamber. As they did the work, a spokesperson said, they found cancer-causing asbestos in the floor tiles and the adhesive.
They called in a licensed abatement contractor who sealed off the chamber areas, creating a negative pressure environment—as in hospitals—to keep the materials from getting out. And they posted notices to let workers on the floor know what was happening. It was apparent though that some city workers with desks closest to the ongoing work chose to either work from home or other locations just to be sure.
The spokesperson said they’ve removed the material, tested the air, and now the construction work continues. They expect the council chamber to be ready in time for next Wednesday’s scheduled in-person City Council meeting.
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