Latest In Park Ave Asbestos Scare: Air Quality Assessed

UPPER EAST SIDE, NY – Breathe easy, Park Ave: Con Edison says air samples taken after Wednesday’s steam leak at Park Avenue and 69th Street have been reviewed by the NYC Department of Environmental Protection and deemed “acceptable.”

Con Ed excavated the site and found the source of the steam leak on Friday morning, a spokesperson confirmed. The utility will replace the leaking component and plans to restore steam service to all 10 affected customers on Friday.

Officials confirmed the presence of debris containing asbestos following the leak, warning New Yorkers to avoid the area or stay inside with windows closed.

Asbestos, an odorless mineral, was used for construction in the past, particularly as insulation.

Unfortunately, the material is linked to various types of lung disease, including mesothelioma, a serious cancer, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

This is a developing story; check back here for further updates.