Possible asbestos slows cleanup of Franklin Court Apartments collapse

Apr. 25—SUPERIOR — Three apartments remain vacated at Franklin Court Apartments following a partial collapse at the building April 18.

Superior's Chief Building Inspector Brian Bustrak said the collapse occurred in an abandoned boiler room that was sealed off when the former Franklin School was renovated into apartments. The boiler system and piping are expected to contain asbestos due to the age of the building, which will complicate cleanup at the site.

"We need to proceed cautiously," Bustrak said.

According to a news release from the Superior Fire Department, it responded to 210 37th Ave. E. after a small portion of Franklin Court collapsed and severed the gas meter feeding the building. Fire crews and the Superior Police Department evacuated the apartments and day care.

Crews from Superior Water, Light and Power were able to turn off the gas to the apartment building and the power to ensure the safety of crews on the scene, said Amy Rutledge, spokesperson for Allete.

Children returned to Happy Hearts day care, 3605 E. Second St., shortly after the evacuation.

Fire crews ventilated Franklin Court and most people were able to return home Thursday evening, said Fire Chief Camron Vollbrecht. Three apartments closest to the old boiler room remain vacant as a precaution.

"Those apartments that are immediately adjacent to the collapsed area are going to remain vacated for days or potentially a week, depending on how the demolition goes," Bustrak said.

The building owners are working with an engineer and an asbestos abatement contractor out of Cloquet to clear and stabilize the section, according to the chief building inspector.

The work of abatement, demolition and stabilization at the site could take up to two weeks, he said.