The opening of a new microbrewery, Tributary Brewing Co., has been delayed due to the discovery of asbestos during the renovation phase of construction. The project, which was originally slated to take approximately sixty days to complete, has slowed significantly as a result of the find. The microbrewery is now expected to open in May.
“Everybody’s chomping at the bit, including me,” said Tod Mott, the master brewer who is opening Tributary Brewing Co., which will feature a tasting room for patrons to sample beer.
As is required by law, state officials were called in and an asbestos abatement specialist was hired to deal with the hazardous material. All work to prepare Tributary for its opening was put on hold. Instead of ripping up the asbestos-containing tiles, Mott had them “encapsulated, which is a much better and much greener approach.”
While he waits for Tributary to open, Mott is collaborating on new beers with other New England-based brewers. “It’s a great way to build another recipe and work with different breweries,” he said, also pointing out that such an arrangement is mutually beneficial, since both brewers can sell the beer at their own location.
Although it’s inconvenient for commercial building owners to have to deal with asbestos abatement, ensuring the safety of patrons and employees has to be the primary goal in any business venture. Despite having been banned in the 1970s, asbestos continues to be found in buildings constructed prior to that time. If asbestos is mishandled and its fibers become airborne, they can be inhaled, potentially causing a variety of respiratory health problems, including mesothelioma.