Federal Stimulus Funds to Support Asbestos Abatement Project

An Oklahoma housing authority will use federal stimulus money for renovations and asbestos abatement for several housing projects. The Tacoma Housing Authority (THA) will spend $4 million to improve housing for low-income senior citizens and disabled individuals.

The funds will come from U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development under the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 and includes the allocation of $4 billion for public housing nationwide.

Michael Mirra, Executive Director for the THA, says the funds are being put to good use and will improve the quality of housing for those who need it most. The project is expected to simulate the economy by providing jobs for 150 trained workers for the renovations and abatement procedures.

Asbestos can lead to a number of illnesses including asbestosis and malignant mesothelioma, a fatal form of cancer. Due to a long latency period, symptoms typically take between 20 and 50 years to appear, too late for any effective treatment.

The repairs are estimated to cost $2.5 million dollars that will include new water pipes, awnings, repair and replacing roofs, siding, parking lots and asbestos abatement. The money will also fund the redevelopment of 140 units. Construction is scheduled to begin in the next 120 days.

Source:  http://www.thenewstribune.com/news/government/story/713070.html