Environmental Update Due in June for American Legion

The clock continues to run down for the River Edge American Legion's life span as an is due in June dictacting if there is any asbestos, underground storage tanks or lead paint on site.

The report, compiled by Environmental Solutions, is needed prior to the eventual demolition of the 80 to 90-year-old Dutch Colonial-style building, so that when it is taken down, any contaminants such as asbestos or lead paint can be removed safely.

The funding for the study and demolition, approximately $50,000, was set aside in the  for 2012.

The building is  along with not being ADA compliant. Additionally, the duct work is exposed on the exterior, there is a need for new windows and roof, proper building insulation, repairs to the foundation, and electrical work. The Legion also does not meet current borough codes as well for fire safety or ventilation. An running between $300,000 to $1.3 million.

In the past, the council had received Community Development Block Grants towards the initial purchase and goal of transforming the American Legion into a  but had later decided to  seeking additional grants.

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