1949_Myrtle_Full_File.pdf
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- Attached to
- City of Scranton 2026 Demolition Package #1
- Solicitation number
- 2026-ITB-130
- 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 Office of Economic and Community Development regarding a property scheduled for demolition at 1949 Myrtle Street, Scranton, Pennsylvania. The inspection was conducted on June 1, 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 inspector collected four bulk material samples from suspect areas including exterior shingle materials and brick/mortar foundations. Analysis of these samples was performed by EMSL Analytical Inc. of Cinnaminson, New Jersey using Polarized Light Microscopy (PLM) methodology in accordance with EPA/600R-93-116. The inspection was limited to accessible areas of the structure due to unknown structural conditions caused by suspected fire damage, large amounts of debris blocking entrances and exits, and locked/chained doors.
The analytical results indicate that asbestos-containing materials were not identified on the accessible areas of the structure at 1949 Myrtle Street. All four samples tested—including exterior shingle materials (samples 001 and 002) and brick/mortar foundation materials (samples 003 and 004)—contained no detectable asbestos. The report notes that if materials not sampled are identified and disturbed during future demolition, additional testing will be required to determine asbestos content. The property was previously evaluated by Barry Isett and Associates, Inc. on May 8, 2026, and determined to be beyond repair, exceeding 85% of value, with the recommendation that the structure should be demolished. The findings are valid only for the prevailing conditions identified during the June 1, 2026 inspection.
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Text version
LIMITED ASBESTOS CONTAINING MATERIALS INSPECTION
Throughout:
1949 MYRTLE STREET
SCRANTON, PA 18510
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 # 13030.04.52
JUNE 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 June 1st, 2026 within the planned demolition site located at 1949 Myrtle Street, 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 four (4) bulk material samples were collected and analyzed.
Asbestos containing materials (ACM) were not identified on the accessible areas of the structure located at 1949 Myrtle Street, Scranton, Pennsylvania.
Materials that were non-suspect or were sampled and through analysis found to not contain asbestos include exterior shingle materials and brick / mortar foundations. 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 June 1st, 2026, a limited asbestos inspection was performed within 1949 Myrtle Street, 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 1949 Myrtle Street. Access to the interior of the structure was limited at the time of the inspection due to unknown structural conditions caused by suspected fire damage to the right side of the structures 2nd floor. Large amounts of debris / brush were present blocking safe entrances and exits to the structure as well as 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 1949 MYRTLE STREET, 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 1949 MYRTLE STREET, 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
042610825EMSL 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 06/02/2026 9:55 AM
Analysis Date:Wilkes Barre, PA 18701 06/04/2026
Collected Date: 06/01/2026
Project: 1949 Myrtle Street, Scranton
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
042610825-0001
None DetectedNon-fibrous (Other)60%Cellulose
Synthetic
35%
5%
Tan/Black
Fibrous
Homogeneous
Exterior Structure -
Shingle Material
042610825-0002
None DetectedQuartz
Non-fibrous (Other)
10%
63%
Cellulose
Synthetic
25%
2%
Tan/Black
Fibrous
Homogeneous
Exterior Structure -
Shingle Material
042610825-0003
None DetectedQuartz
Non-fibrous (Other)
40%
60%
Gray
Non-Fibrous
Homogeneous
Exterior Structure -
Brick Mortar
Foundation
042610825-0004
None DetectedQuartz
Non-fibrous (Other)
25%
75%
Gray
Non-Fibrous
Homogeneous
Exterior Structure -
Brick Mortar
Foundation
Analyst(s)
Adam Einwechter (2)
Brett Teixeira (2)
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: 06/04/2026 15:14:29
Page 1 of 1ASB_PLM_0008_0002 - 2.31 Printed: 6/4/2026 3:14 PM
APPENDIX B
PHOTOS
APPENDIX C
May 8, 2026
City of Scranton Office of Economic and Community Development 340 North Washington Ave
Scranton, PA 18503
Attn: Brian Phillips Community Development Coordinator / Blight Specialist
RE: 1949 Myrtle St., Scranton, PA 18510 City of Scranton Office of Economic and Community Development City of Scranton, Lackawanna County, Pennsylvania
Dear Mr. Phillips, Barry Isett and Associates, Inc. visited the property known as 1949 Myrtle St., Scranton, PA 18510, on Friday, May 8, 2026. During the site visit, the structure was evaluated for demolition. The evaluation was based on visual inspection of the exterior. Select portions of the interior were visible at the time of the site visit. The conditions present in the field on the day of the site visit indicate that the property is in a state of disrepair. The property had been condemned by the City of Scranton.
Observed deficiencies include deterioration of the building envelope, including the roofing system, gutters, eves and fascia, missing windows, and unsecured openings. The property is overgrown and has an accumulation of building supplies and garbage. In our opinion, the structure is beyond repair exceeding 85% or more of the value and should be demolished but is not determined to be an emergency demolition.
Should you have any questions or comments regarding this information, please do not hesitate to contact our office.
Sincerely, Amos Valenti
Project Manager
Project Management & Construction
Services
| 13030.04.52 1949 Myrtle Street ACM Inspection Report June 2026 |
| Report |
| APPENDIX A |
| 042610825_002 |
| APPENDIX B |
| PHOTOS |
| APPENDIX C |
| Cert |
| 20260508_1949 Myrtle_St Inspection Report Barry Isett |
| 1949 Myrtle SIGNED PDF Demo Letter 5.28 |
| 1949 Myrtle LLC Title Durkovic |
File details come from the government source that posted it. Updated .