Mold forces quick relocation of Brookline seniors

September 11, 2008

Pittsburgh Tribune-Review - Pittsburgh,PA*

Thursday, September 11, 2008

57.html

Pittsburgh Housing Authority officials today will tell residents of

an authority-owned Brookline apartment building that they must

relocate within 30 days because of mold in the building.

The 27 senior citizens who live in Mazza Pavilion on Brookline

Boulevard will be offered apartments at the authority's building in

Glen Hazel, or they can choose Section 8 housing or live with their

families, said authority spokeswoman -Washington.

" It's unfortunate we have to move them quickly, but we want to

ensure their health and safety, " she said.

-Washington said tenants are aware of the mold, discovered

along with water damage when crews began replacing the roof, but

initially thought they would not have to move for 90 days. The time

frame was moved up for health reasons and to avoid moving people

during the holidays, she said.

" We don't know the extent of what's going on behind the walls, but

we know in the interest of making sure our tenants are safe we want

to move them as soon as possible, " -Washington said. Exposure

to mold can cause respiratory problems and irritate the skin and

eyes.

She said crews frequently have inspected the building since

discovering mold, but want to tear out drywall. If repairs are

possible, tenants might return later, she said.

The four-story, 30-unit stucco building was built in the 1970s.

Urseline Services, a Pittsburgh-based social services contractor,

and the Allegheny County Health Department will assist with the

relocations, she said.

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