1321_n_main_ave_full_file.pdf
PDF 12 MB Posted
- Attached to
- City of Scranton 2026 Demolition Package #2
- Solicitation number
- 2026-ITB-131
- Issued by
- Lackawanna County, Pennsylvania
About this file
This is a Limited Asbestos Containing Materials Inspection report prepared by Quad Three Group, Inc. for the City of Scranton's Office of Economic and Community Development regarding a property scheduled for demolition at 1321 North Main Avenue, Scranton, Pennsylvania. The inspection was conducted on April 20, 2026, by William Sterling, a Pennsylvania-licensed asbestos inspector (PA Asbestos Inspector #057069), to determine the presence of asbestos-containing materials (ACM) within the structure prior to demolition. The inspection included a visual survey of accessible areas, collection of bulk material samples, and laboratory analysis using polarized light microscopy (PLM) methodology. Two samples of exterior brick and mortar were collected and analyzed by EMSL Analytical Inc., an NIST-accredited laboratory. The inspection was limited to accessible areas of the structure due to significant structural concerns, including collapsing roofs, shifting foundations, blocked entrances, and locked doors.
The analytical results, completed on April 28, 2026, determined that asbestos-containing materials were not identified on the accessible areas of the structure. Both bulk material samples of exterior brick mortar tested negative for asbestos concentrations greater than one percent by weight, which is the regulatory threshold established by the EPA. The report notes that if additional materials not sampled are identified and disturbed during future demolition, additional testing will be required to verify their asbestos content. The findings are valid only for the prevailing conditions present at the time of inspection in April 2026. This inspection report supports the City of Scranton's preparation for the 2026 Demolition Package #2, with bids due July 14, 2026, and provides baseline environmental documentation for the demolition project.
View the file
Other files
On GovTribe
Work with this file
- Download the original file
- Contacts named in this file
- Similar government files
- Ask GovTribe AI about this file
Text version
LIMITED ASBESTOS CONTAINING MATERIALS INSPECTION
Throughout:
1321 NORTH MAIN AVENUE
SCRANTON, PA 18508
Prepared for:
SCRANTON OFFICE OF ECOMONIC AND COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT
340 NORTH WASHINGTON AVENUE (MUNICIPAL BUILDING),
SCRANTON, PA 18503
Attention:
Mr. Brian Philips
Prepared by:
QUAD THREE GROUP, INC.
37 NORTH WASHINGTON STREET
WILKES-BARRE, PENNSYLVANIA 18701
PH. (570) 829 - 4200
FAX (570) 829 - 0302
PROJECT # 13030.04.48
MAY 2026
TABLE OF CONTENTS
I. EXECUTIVE SUMMARY…………………………………………….1.
II. INTRODUCTION……………………………………………………..1.
III. SURVEY AREA AND DISCUSSION……………………………....2.
IV. MATERIALS SAMPLING AND ANALYTICAL…………………...2.
V. INSPECTION FINDINGS AND RECOMMENDATIONS…………3.
VI. ASBESTOS CONTAINING MATERIALS ABATEMENT………..3.
COST
VII. INSPECTION DISCLAIMER………………………………………..4.
APPENDICES
APPENDIX A ASBESTOS ANALYSIS RESULTS
APPENDIX B SITE PHOTOS
APPENDIX C CERTIFICATIONS
LIMITED ASBESTOS CONTAINING MATERIALS INSPECTION
Prepared for:
Scranton Office of Economic and Community Development 340 North Washington Avenue (Municipal Building), Scranton, PA 18503
I. EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
An Asbestos Containing Materials Inspection was conducted on April 20th, 2026 within the planned demolition site located at 1321 North Main Avenue, Scranton, Pennsylvania. The purpose of the inspection was to determine if asbestos containing materials exist within the structure. Mr. William Sterling (PA Asbestos Inspector #057069) of Quad Three Group, Inc. conducted the inspection in conjunction with demolition scheduled at the structure.
As part of this asbestos inspection, the quantities and conditions of asbestos containing materials were identified. A total of two (2) bulk material samples were collected and analyzed.
Asbestos containing materials (ACM) were not identified on the accessible areas of the structure located at 1321 North Main Avenue, Scranton, Pennsylvania
Materials that were non-suspect or were sampled and through analysis found to not contain asbestos include exterior brick / motor. Descriptions of all the material samples collected can be found in Appendix A.
If materials that were not sampled are identified and to be disturbed during future demolition, additional testing will be required to determine the asbestos content of those materials.
The conclusions presented in this report are the result of the coalition, compilation and analysis of samples and other information obtained during the inspection. The results presented in this report represent the conditions present at the time of the inspection. Quad Three Group has no control over conditions or events that occurred following the date of inspection.
II. INTRODUCTION
On April 20 th, 2026, a limited asbestos inspection was performed within 1321 North Main Avenue, Scranton, Pennsylvania. The purpose of the inspection was to visually locate, identify and quantify asbestos containing materials (ACM) as they exist within the structure scheduled for demolition. The survey / inspection process included:
A. Inspecting the area to identify representative “suspected” asbestos-containing materials, types and sampling sites.
B. Collecting representative samples from any suspect material in order to identify all
Asbestos Containing Materials (ACM). Examples of these materials include Pipe insulation, plaster, sheet-rock, floor tiles, linoleum, etc.
1.
C. Sampling was performed by experienced, licensed personnel utilizing semi -destructive sampling techniques in an attempt to locate asbestos containing materials.
D. Laboratory analysis of the materials sampled was performed at an accredited laboratory using the EPA recommended method of polarized light microscopy (PLM) for friable samples.
III. SURVEY AREA DISCUSSION
The property was comprised of a multiple story structure at 1321 North Main Avenue.
Access to the interior of the structure was limited at the time of the inspection due to structural concerns caused by the collapsing roofs, shifting / buckling foundations, collapsing doors, debris / brush blocking safe entrances and exits to the structure, and locked / chained doors. The Inspection was limited to the accessible areas of the structure. Major structural components include concrete, brick, stone, block, and wood.
IV. MATERIALS SAMPLING AND ANALYTICAL METHODOLOGY
The building inspection was conducted by an inspector, qualified by experience, education and training in the recognition of suspect asbestos-containing materials (ACM). An initial walk through was conducted to identify suspect asbestos containing materials and to group them into homogeneous sampling areas.
Following the walkthrough, the number of samples required to determine the presence of ACM in the study areas was determined. Sample collection was performed with the intent to identify and locate asbestos containing materials and to group them into homogeneous material categories. This grouping allowed the inspectors to identify like materials within the facility to avoid over sampling or mischaracterization of an asbestos containing material.
The majority of the ACM samples were located utilizing non-destructive techniques. Some areas of ACM may still exist in areas that could not be accessed until complete interior demolition is completed.
Representative samples of each “suspect asbestos containing material” were collected utilizing approved federal and state methods. When samples were collected, the locations were noted. Measurements were taken to determine the approximate quantity of suspect material. The condition of the material was also documented at that time.
All material samples were analyzed via Polarized Light Microscopy (PLM) as per EPA/600R- 93-116, July 1993.
The analytical results and locations for all samples collected can be found in Appendix A.
The samples were analyzed by EMSL Analytical Inc. of Cinnaminson New Jersey. EMSL is accredited by the National Institute of Standards and Technology’s “National Voluntary Laboratory Accreditation Program” NVLAP, and has developed and implemented an intra laboratory quality assurance/quality control program to ensure accuracy and consistency of results.
2.
Asbestos is present if the material analyzed is greater than one percent (>1.0%) by weight.
This stipulation is outlined in the EPA Publication EPA 500/5-85-024, Section 2.2.2.2.
V. INSPECTION FINDINGS AND RECOMMENDATIONS
Asbestos containing materials have not been identified on the accessible areas of the structure.
Asbestos containing materials are categorized as containing asbestos concentrations greater than one percent (>1.0%) by weight. Asbestos fiber concentrations less than one percent (<1.0%) by weight are still regulated under OSHA standard 1926.1101.
Below are the results of the building inspection. The results indicate the sample location, sample numbers, material and condition. Some of the materials were homogenized for sampling purposes. For example, once a homogeneous material was sampled, the sample result could be considered representative for that material throughout the residence. If one sample of a homogeneous material tested positive for asbestos, then the entire homogeneous material was classified as asbestos containing in accordance with Environmental Protection Agency Guidelines.
The conditions of the materials are designated as good, damaged or significantly damaged.
The following materials were found to contain more than one percent (>1.0%) asbestos by weight:
ASBESTOS CONTAINING MATERIALS WERE NOT IDENTIFIED ON THE ACCESSIBLE
AREAS OF THE STRUCTURE LOCATED AT 1321 NORTH MAIN AVENUE, SCRANTON,
PA.
Analytical results for the materials sampled are located in Appendix A.
Friable materials are materials that can be crushed by applying hand pressure. Non-friable materials are materials that typically cannot be crushed by hand pressure (floor tiles/mastics). If grinding or pulverization were to occur during demolition, non-friable materials can be rendered friable.
Asbestos containing materials (friable and non-friable) located on the interior / exterior of a building, which will be disturbed during renovations / demolition, must be removed and disposed of by a licensed asbestos abatement contractor.
VI. ASBESTOS CONTAINING MATERIAL ABATEMENT COSTS
As part of this report, cost estimates have been provided to help assist the Scranton Office of Economic and Community Development to evaluate the costs associated with a renovation or demolition project. The cost estimates have been arrived at independently and have been inserted in this report solely for the use of the Scranton Office of Economic and Community Development. The following estimate has been prepared for budgetary purposes. All measurements are approximate. Contractors should independently verify the quantities of materials when preparing a cost estimate for removal.
The following applies:
ASBESTOS CONTAINING MATERIALS WERE NOT IDENTIFIED ON THE ACCESSIBLE
AREAS OF THE STRUCTURE LOCATED AT 1321 NORTH MAIN AVENUE, SCRANTON,
PA.
3.
VII. INSPECTION DISCLAIMER
Data and other information in this report are only valid for the prevailing conditions identified during this investigation and will be kept confidential. Any information contained in this report will not be released to third parties without the expressed written consent of the client except where required by law.
The conclusions expressed within this report are intended to advise the client of the potential regulated environmental hazards within the subject property. It is the responsibility of the client to comply with current regulations relating to the hazards identified in this report. The burden for financial or health consequences for action or lack of action taken by the client or the client's agent is the responsibility of the client.
4.
APPENDIX A
EMSL Analytical, Inc.
200 Route 130 North Cinnaminson, NJ 08077
Tel/Fax: (800) 220-3675 / (856) 786-5974 http://www.EMSL.com / cinnasblab@EMSL.com
042608058EMSL Order:
Customer ID: QUAD30
Customer PO:
Project ID:
Attention: Phone:William Sterling (570) 829-4200
Fax:Quad 3 Group, Inc. (570) 829-0302
Received Date:37 N. Washington Street 04/24/2026 9:20 AM
Analysis Date:Wilkes Barre, PA 18701 04/28/2026
Collected Date:
Project: 1321 North Main Ave
Test Report: Asbestos Analysis of Bulk Materials via AHERA Method 40CFR 763 Subpart E
Appendix E supplemented with EPA 600/R-93/116 using Polarized Light Microscopy
Sample Description Appearance % Fibrous % Non-Fibrous
Non-Asbestos Asbestos
% Type
042608058-0001
None DetectedQuartz
Non-fibrous (Other)
15%
85%
Gray
Non-Fibrous
Homogeneous
Exterior Structure -
Brick Mortar
042608058-0002
None DetectedQuartz
Non-fibrous (Other)
20%
80%
Gray/Red
Non-Fibrous
Heterogeneous
Exterior Structure -
Brick Mortar
Result includes a small amount of inseparable attached material
Analyst(s)
Hunter Kelly (1)
Jonathan Bach (1)
Samantha Sweeney, Laboratory Manager or Other Approved Signatory
EMSL maintains liability limited to cost of analysis. Interpretation and use of test results are the responsibility of the client. This report relates only to the samples reported above, and may not be reproduced, except in full, without written approval by EMSL. EMSL bears no responsibility for sample collection activities or analytical method limitations. The report reflects the samples as received.
Results are generated from the field sampling data (sampling volumes and areas, locations, etc.) provided by the client on the Chain of Custody. Samples are within quality control criteria and met method specifications unless otherwise noted. The above analyses were performed in general compliance with Appendix E to Subpart E of 40 CFR (previously EPA 600/M4-82-020 “Interim Method”) but augmented with procedures outlined in the 1993 (”final”) version of the method. This report must not be used by the client to claim product certification, approval, or endorsement by NVLAP, NIST or any agency of the federal government. Non-friable organically bound materials present a problem matrix and therefore EMSL recommends gravimetric reduction prior to analysis. Unless requested by the client, building materials manufactured with multiple layers (i.e. linoleum, wallboard, etc.) are reported as a single sample. Estimation of uncertainty is available on request.
Samples analyzed by EMSL Analytical, Inc. Cinnaminson, NJ NVLAP Lab Code 101048-0, AIHA LAP, LLC-IHLAP Lab 100194, PA ID# 68-00367, LA #04127
Initial report from: 04/28/2026 23:02:41
Page 1 of 1ASB_PLM_0008_0002 - 2.31 Printed: 4/28/2026 11:02 PM
APPENDIX B
PHOTOS
APPENDIX C
March 19, 2026
Andrew Sunday Deputy Director/Building Code Official #7498429 City of Scranton, PA
Attention: Andrew Sunday
Re: Structural Inspection 1321 N. Main Ave., Scranton PA
Dear Mr. Sunday:
As you requested, Brian Tully, P.E. of Reilly Associates conducted a visual inspection of the wood frame structure(s) at 1321 N. Main Ave. in Scranton, PA on March 16, 2026. The inspection was limited to the structural condition of areas visible from the ground of the structure’s exterior, where accessible, and limited areas of the interior visible through first floor windows. The main building and the small separate structure are vacant. The building is condemned (see attached photo of posted notice). The building was not entered.
There are numerous structural and safety issues including, but not limited to:
- Deteriorated structure: wood framing, brick, roofs, porches, exterior stairs, chimney, interior ceilings, and floors, etc.
- Multiple openings (deteriorated structure, broken windows, damaged or partially open doors, etc.) allow water intrusion and animal access.
- Roofs are sagging and allow water intrusion in multiple locations. Interior ceilings and floors (visible from exterior) appear to have extensive water damage.
The structures appear to be damaged beyond repair and are structurally unsound. The building perimeter is a hazardous due to existing deteriorated loose material and potential building collapse.
We recommend that the building be demolished as soon as possible.
Refer to photos below. Additional photos are available.
1321 N. Main Ave., Scranton, PA Structural Inspection r
Photo 1 - 20260316_173837 Photo 2 - 20260316_173814 “Condemned” posted notice Front, left entrance.
Photo 3 - 20260316_174118 Photo 4 - 20260316_174129 Front, right porch/entrance. Front, right, second floor.
Photo 5 - 20260316_174000 Photo 6 - 20260316_173806 Front. Deteriorated entry, brick, window, … Front: Deteriorated entry area
Photo 7 - 20260316_173756 Photo 8 - 20260316_173645 Deteriorated brick, window frame, … Deteriorated brick and wood framing, …
Photo 9 - 20260316_173623 Photo 10 - 20260316_173049 Deteriorated brick and wood framing, … Front: Deteriorated exterior stair …
Photo 11 - 20260316_173637 Photo 12 - 20260316_173001 Deteriorated brick and wood framing, … Deteriorated wood framing, windows, …
Photo 13 - 20260316_172648 Photo 14 - 20260316_172736 Rear: Deteriorated building(s), … Rear: Deteriorated structure.
Photo 15 - 20260316_172837 Photo 16 - 20260316_172856 Rear: Deteriorated roof, brick chimney … Rear: Deteriorated roof, brick chimney …
If you have any questions, please contact me.
Sincerely, REILLY ASSOCIATES
Brian Tully, P.E
C: Tom Oleski Eileen Cipriany Jessica Eskra Chief Judge
| 1321 N. Main SIGNED PDF Demo Letter 3.23 |
| 1321 N Main Ave Calixto Title Durkovic 6.15.26 |
| 13030.04.48 1321 North Main Avenue ACM Inspection Report May 2026 |
| Report |
| APPENDIX A |
| 042608058_001 |
| APPENDIX B |
| PHOTOS |
| APPENDIX C |
| Cert |
1321 N Main Ave Inspection Report Reilly Associates
File details come from the government source that posted it. Updated .