BEDFORD — The Lawrence County Commissioners have officially approved a remediation contract to prepare for the future expansion of the Lawrence County Health Department. During their Tuesday morning meeting, the commissioners greenlit a proposal from BlueMoose Environmental to address mold issues at the former Public Defender’s office located at 2421 Mitchell Road.
The building, which sits adjacent to the current Health Department offices, is being overhauled to provide expanded space for public health services.
The $14,400 project is designed to be a comprehensive “deep clean” to ensure the facility meets strict air quality and safety standards before staff and the public occupy the space. According to the contract, BlueMoose Environmental will perform the following services:
The remediation is expected to be swift, with work projected to take 5 to 7 business days to complete. Once the mold is cleared, the county can proceed with further renovations to customize the space for the Health Department’s needs.
Containment: The use of high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) scrubbers to prevent mold spores from migrating to unaffected areas during the work.
Physical Removal: Remediation of all visible mold and the removal/disposal of contaminated ceiling tiles, carpeting, and cabinetry.
System Cleaning: A thorough cleaning of the building’s heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) units to ensure the air supply remains uncontaminated.
Verification: Post-remediation air sampling and a final report to confirm the building is safe for use.
Mold growth in commercial buildings is often the result of stagnant air or previous water intrusion. If left untreated, mold can cause respiratory issues, allergic reactions, and structural damage. By addressing these concerns now, the commissioners are ensuring that the new Health Department facility is a healthy environment for both the county’s healthcare workers and the residents they serve.
The expansion to 2421 Mitchell Road represents a significant step in the county’s plan to modernize its public health infrastructure, following a series of state-wide initiatives to bolster local health department capabilities.
