DEP investigates probable asbestos violations by Posen construction

The state is now investigating two sites for asbestos and connection of Posen Construction to both the sites.

The mound of dirt is still at the intersection of Summerlin Road and College Parkway. The construction company is said to have put it there. Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP) has confirmed the fill material is tainted with potentially dangerous asbestos pipe. The agency has received a number of complaints about Posen construction.

Sherrill Culliver of FDEP said they are receiving tips regarding various sites and locations.

In fact, the FDEP had started its first investigation about the site almost one year back. The agency said it was a Lee County employee who initially suspected there was a problem.

According to the FDEP, the privately owned property was a holding ground for Posen Construction and it used the land to store building material for its projects, perhaps the asbestos-laden material discovered on Summerlin Road.

There will be a deadline for Posen Construction for removing those asbestos pipes from the site. However, the county doesn’t have the authority to discontinue the business with the company unless the company is charged criminally, according to Scott Gilbertson of the Lee County Department of Transportation. As per state law, counties should go with the lowest bidder even if they have a dubious background, Gilbertson said.

Posen Construction could face criminal charged if it is proved liable for the asbestos on Summerlin Road.

«


»