In 2021, a new Will County courthouse was finally completed leaving the former downtown courthouse in Joliet empty. Not too many people were sorry to see the weird concrete building shut down, but a group of preservationists fought to have the building survive.
2019 VoteIn a 2019 vote, the Will County Board unanimously agreed to demolish the building. At that time, some advocates of building preservation argued that there would be asbestos issues if the building were demolished. Asbestos remediation is often expensive.
2023 UpdateJust recently, the old Will County Courthouse escaped demolition by just one vote as the board agreed to go forward with a redevelopment proposal. The vote was not a carte-blanche stamp of approval to let the building stand, but it did not move the Joliet-based building another step away from a very dusty demolition.
$200,000 Already SpentThe county had already spent over $200,000 in engineering expenses as it began the demolition process. The county’s 2023 budget estimated that another $2.5 million would need to be spent to properly demolish the building and then clean up the hazardous site.
Historic Landmark StatusThe Joliet Historic Preservation Commission also became involved in the process as it continued holding hearings regarding the building’s possible landmark status. While the hearing process continues, no demolition can occur.
Asbestos Issues Either WayWhether the old Will County Courthouse will be redeveloped or ultimately demolished, asbestos issues will come to the forefront of any discussion regarding the building’s future.
Environmental Protection AgencyThe Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has a requirement called National Emission Standards for Hazardous Air Pollutants (NESHAP) for Asbestos. According to the EPA, “There are specific federal regulatory requirements that require the identification of asbestos-containing materials (ACM) in many of the…buildings that are being demolished or renovated by a municipality.” And, “The NESHAP for asbestos apply to most demolition projects conducted by municipalities, counties and land banks.”
Site InspectionsThorough site inspections are required as buildings scheduled for demolition need to have possible problem areas identified, and plans need to be made to remediate the effects of the release of asbestos fibers called “fibrils.”
Asbestos DangerInhalation and/or ingestion of harmful asbestos fibrils can result in fatal conditions like:
Asbestos was commonly used in building construction up until the 1980s. Since asbestos is a great insulator and has significant fire retardant properties, it was a go-to construction material.
If asbestos is left in place--in wrapped and not broken pipe insulation, for example--there is no reason to abate it. Also, if asbestos is suspected under a tile floor, it can be left alone. Imagine, however, the amount of asbestos fibrils that could be released during a building demolition, and you will understand the EPA requirements.
Joliet Asbestos Exposure SitesYou or a loved one might have been exposed to asbestos fibrils. The exposure could have happened at work, or even at home since asbestos lurks in many areas. If you or a relative thinks they have been exposed to asbestos anywhere in Joliet whether the location is public or private, you need to contact a qualified Joliet Mesothelioma Attorney like the Throneberry Law Group. The Throneberry Law Group provides aggressive and compassionate support and representation for asbestos cancer victims. Call the experienced attorneys today at
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