The planned Habitat Village development to be constructed in place of the former Belleville Police Service and Calvary Temple at 93 Dundas Street East in Belleville is experiencing minor delays during the demolition stage of the project. Habitat PEH CEO Hazzem Koudsi shared that additional vermiculite (asbestos) was discovered within the block wall cavities during demolition. This finding exceeded what was identified in the Phase I environmental assessment and locations outlined in the previously well-established Designated Substance Survey.
“Chris Ellerton, our Director of Construction, confirmed that upon further delineation, vermiculite was found to be present within the north, west, and east original exterior walls and other stairwells” Koudsi said. When vermiculite is discovered outdoors, it must be abated following outdoor Type 3 procedures as outlined in O. Reg. 278/05. We are not prepared to take risks by removing vermiculite improperly in the name of speed.” The demolition is also being carried out under a sustainability focused plan with recyclable concrete being separated from recyclable metals and general debris destined for landfill.
The demolition is now scheduled to be completed by the end of January. This additional work isn’t expected to significantly increase the cost of demolition as appropriate contingency funds were incorporated into the original contract.
Koudsi noted that the original plan includes a yearlong fundraising effort to raise $8.3M prior to construction. As a result, this delay in the name of worker and environmental safety doesn’t negatively impact the target completion date of June, 2028.
The Habitat Village development will consist of a five-storey condominium building with 66 affordable homeownership units available for families. The project is designed to provide stability for children, support better life outcomes, and create a more resilient socio-economic community. A daycare and community centre is also part of the site plan.
“Delays are a normal part of construction, and this situation isn’t any different.” Koudsi concluded “it will be worth the wait for 66 families that will move from renting to affordable home ownership in Habitat Village.”
To apply for current homeownership opportunities on Lester Road in Trenton or donate to Habitat Village, please visit www.Habitatpeh.org
