Asbestos-riddled hotel in Dallas of public concern
In Dallas, Texas, an aging, asbestos-laden hotel is facing increased public scrutiny in the wake of an announcement that the hotel may be restored to its former glory. The owners of the Statler Hilton on Commerce Street have approached both Mayor Tom Leppert and council member Ron Natinsky about restoring the aging building, with work expected to begin sometime in 2010.
"We have been in contact with both the company and the company representatives. There has been a shift in responsibility over [the Statler] that has come with what we view as very positive conceptual ideas with what they would do," Leppert said.
"If any building downtown is the poster child for why we need to redevelop and save downtown, the Statler Hilton is it," added Natinksy.
The hotel, built in 1956, has been vacant for nearly a decade. It contains asbestos and has out-of-date wiring, which are two problems that must be addressed. Asbestos exposure has been repeatedly and incontrovertibly linked to the development of mesothelioma, a rare form of cancer. Mesothelioma affects less than 3,000 Americans each year, and the majority of patients lose their battle with this cancer in less than two years following diagnosis.
There is a possibility that the cost of restoring the building could be lowered due to investment groups in the area. "The availability of putting together a...investment group to do the project brings to the table a significantly lower cost of money," Natinsky added.
Free Mesothelioma Information Packet
Enter your information to receive a comprehensive mesothelioma packet free of charge at your doorstep within 24 hours.
