By Michael P. Walsh
Special to the Voice
The building that houses the Louis Piantino Branch Library at 1 Forest Road in Allingtown has been closed by the Health Department until further notice because of a sewage backup on Nov. 27, Mayor Nancy R. Rossi said.
In a letter to Rossi, Health Director Maureen B. Lillis wrote: “The Health Department conducted an inspection of the Piantino Library after a significant sewage spill. With the health and safety of the public in mind, it is my recommendation that the building remain closed until the remainder of the work is complete. Final inspections from the Building and Health Departments will be forthcoming.”
Rossi said the backup, which occurred six days before she was sworn into office, caused damage to carpeting, floor tiles, plasterboard and an elevator in the lower level of the building, which is occupied by a nonprofit organization.
While the damage was limited to the lower level, Rossi said the entire building has been closed in the interest of public safety as crews continue to clean up the area.
The cleanup work includes air quality monitoring throughout the building, Rossi said.
The middle level is occupied by the library. The upper level is vacant, formerly occupied by the Allingtown Senior Center.
Rossi said she will notify residents of the building’s reopening once city officials determine that the building poses no health or safety risks.
Residents, meantime, are encouraged to visit the Main Library at 300 Elm St.