Historic Fall River Police Station Faces Wrecking Ball

Asbestos removal is set to begin on Monday, June 29, at the former police station located at 158 Bedford Street in Fall River. This marks the initial phase of an emergency demolition process for the historic building, which has been declared an imminent public health hazard by the city's building inspector. This declaration allows the city to bypass the standard 12-month delay required before demolishing city-owned historic structures.

Concerns have been raised by preservation advocates who argue for the building's stabilization or salvage of architectural elements. However, Director of Inspectional Services Glenn Hathaway emphasized the structure's dangerous condition, describing it as collapsing internally. He cited recent incidents of young people and homeless individuals entering the building as a significant safety risk, stating, "I can't afford to have a child fall through that floor in there and become dead." The building has been secured for about 15 years, with police called to the property seven times in the last decade.

Bestech Inc., an environmental remediation and demolition company, has been awarded a $1,411,000 contract to perform the necessary work. The four-story building, which has long been considered undevelopable due to hazardous materials like asbestos and lead paint, has a history of failed development attempts. Multiple developers have acquired and returned the property to the city over the past two decades. Significant structural issues, including a compromised roof, water damage, and missing architectural features, contribute to its condemned status.