Richmond Rx Plant – Environmental & Demolition
Client
City of Richmond / Public Utilities Division
Location
Richmond, VA
Year
2024
Scope
Asbestos abatement
Hazardous materials removal (including lead and chemical residue)
Interior and structural demolition
Coordination within an operational water treatment environment
As part of infrastructure modernization efforts, the City of Richmond initiated upgrades to portions of its central drinking water treatment facility. Aging buildings and support structures required remediation and demolition prior to mechanical upgrades and plant expansion.
Due to the sensitive nature of the facility, responsible for potable water delivery to thousands, RemacUSA was selected for its precision, regulatory compliance, and deep experience in utility-critical environments.
Services Performed
✅ Asbestos Abatement
Removal of pipe insulation, mastic, and transite board from treatment support buildings. All work was conducted under containment with third-party air monitoring and full Virginia DEQ compliance.
✅ Lead-Based Paint Removal
Selective removal and stabilization of lead-painted surfaces prior to wall demolition and steel cutting.
✅ Demolition & Structure Removal
Interior demolition of abandoned mechanical rooms, CMU block walls, and roof decking. Structural components were removed using confined-space methods and low-vibration equipment to avoid disrupting ongoing plant operations.
✅ Utility Coordination
Crews worked around active chemical feed lines and water mains. No unplanned utility disruptions occurred during demolition.
Challenges & Solutions
Challenge
Operations had to proceed within a live municipal water treatment facility, where contamination risk and safety protocols were heightened.
Solution
RemacUSA enforced strict entry protocols, used isolated containment zones, and worked under continuous oversight by City engineers and safety officers. All hazmat was tracked via manifest and disposed of at permitted Subtitle C and Subtitle D facilities.
Final Outcome
The project was completed safely, on time, and without environmental incident. All abatement clearances were passed on first review, and RemacUSA’s demolition scope was finalized with zero impact on drinking water services.
City staff acknowledged RemacUSA’s professionalism, adaptability, and knowledge of regulated utility workspaces.
