A Historic Structure Prepares for a Bright Future
In Newburyport, MA, an iconic and historically significant structure—the former Newburyport Armory—is undergoing a major transformation. What once stood as a symbol of military readiness and even radical political unrest is now poised to become a community cornerstone: the city’s new Recreation and Youth Services Center.
Before construction can begin, Banner Environmental Services was called in to conduct a large-scale asbestos abatement project to ensure the site would be safe for future generations of children, teens, and families.
From Armory to Rec Center: A Building With a Story
The building’s past is as powerful as its future. In 1970, the Newburyport Armory made national headlines when it was attacked and set ablaze by the radical Weather Underground group—resulting in major structural damage and loss of sensitive materials. Later converted into a municipal building, the armory has remained largely underused in recent decades.
Now, thanks to community support—a $6.5 million voter-approved investment—the site at 59 Low Street is being redeveloped into a vital hub for youth and family programming in the city.
But before that dream can move forward, hazardous materials from the building’s past need to be removed safely and efficiently.
Banner’s Role: Specialized Asbestos Abatement
The project presented some unique challenges. The scope included the removal of approximately 6,800 square feet of asbestos-containing transite roof siding, a notoriously brittle material often used in older buildings. In addition, Banner was tasked with removing approximately 300 linear feet of asbestos expansion gaskets.
As always, Banner’s abatement process followed stringent compliance with:
- MassDEP regulations
- MA Department of Labor Standards (DLS)
- Federal asbestos NESHAP requirements
- On-site engineering controls and negative air containment
This included:
- Coordinating third-party clearance air testing as required by 454 CMR 28.10(9)
- Installing HEPA-filtered negative air systems
- Using wet methods to prevent fiber release during removal
- Packaging and manifesting all asbestos waste for safe transport and disposal
As part of Banner’s customer service model, the team also handled scheduling and coordination of the third-party project monitor, even though the actual testing must remain independent by law.
Supporting a Community-Driven Mission
The new recreation center will house youth programming, enrichment activities, social services, and support for mental health and substance abuse prevention.
Without a centralized facility since 2021, the department has operated across scattered sites around the city. This renovation project—made possible through public support and professional partnerships—will finally bring services back under one roof.
Banner Environmental was proud to contribute by ensuring the building was free from environmental hazards, making way for a clean, healthy, and welcoming facility for all.
Why Asbestos Abatement Matters in Historic Buildings
Many older municipal buildings contain asbestos in roofing, siding, and gaskets, posing risks if disturbed during renovations. Improper removal can expose workers and community members to harmful airborne fibers.
By hiring certified asbestos abatement professionals like Banner, municipalities and nonprofits can:
- Ensure regulatory compliance
- Avoid project delays or fines
- Protect public health
- Preserve the integrity of historic structures
Safe Spaces Start With Expert Asbestos Abatement
With the completion of asbestos abatement, the City of Newburyport can move forward confidently toward the recreation center’s next construction milestones.
Looking to renovate an older municipal building or public facility? Let Banner Environmental Services help ensure your site is clean, compliant, and safe from hazardous materials.
👉 Contact us online
📞 Call: (866) 934-2374
Newburyport Armory / Recreation Center Asbestos Abatement Images
