Orange County, Orlando commissioners have approved the demolition of the Colony Plaza Hotel, an asbestos-ridden building that was abandoned 11 years ago.
Known as the “pink monster,” officials decided the building will be demolished 30 to 45 days after the city approved a $700,000 contract to Central Environmental Services to perform asbestos abatement. Contractors believe demolition will be completed in 90 to 100 days.
The former hotel became a haven for vandalism and thieves and health and safety concerns related to asbestos exposure prompted talks to demolish the building.
Used throughout the 20th century, asbestos was known for its durability and resistance to heat and fire. asbestos can still be found in insulation for pipes, ceiling tiles and flooring. As fixtures containing asbestos age, they become more hazardous and can release asbestos fibers in the air where they can be inhaled or ingested into the body.
Overtime, asbestos exposure can lead to the development of asbestos-related illnesses such as mesothelioma. mesothelioma is an aggressive cancer that is both difficult to treat and diagnose. Due to the long latency period associated with mesothelioma, many victims will not demonstrate symptoms until 20 to 50 years after initial exposure.
With limited treatment and a short survival window, mesothelioma prognosis is usually poor and studies show an average survival rate of less than one year.
Removal of asbestos from public facilities, buildings and homes can be a costly decision, but a vital step in demolition projects. asbestos abatement requires adherence to safety protocols and procedures to avoid lethal exposures. The abatement process can allow asbestos fibers to spread and place those nearby at risk of exposure.
Crews from the Central Environment Services will wear protective gear, including special respiratory masks that guard against possible airborne fibers.
Officials stated that the decrepit appearance of the hotel and the presence of toxic materials made the decision to remove asbestos and demolish the building an easy one.
“It’s well overdue and a good thing for the community to get rid of that eyesore,” said Richard Lorenz, owner and founder of Central Environmental Services.
Additional information about asbestos exposure and mesothelioma may be found through the mesothelioma Cancer Center.