Community Update #4

As we continue to prepare for the demolition at 5260 Western Avenue this summer, we wanted to provide an overview of the comprehensive plan and safety protocols that are in place to ensure the health of nearby residents, pedestrians, and workers throughout every phase of this work.

First, it is important to know that required approvals are being obtained from the appropriate authorities prior to commencing each stage of work, including Montgomery County and the Maryland Department of the Environment (MDE).

Second, the project has entered its initial interior preparation phase. This work takes place entirely inside the building and includes careful removal of existing interior materials, with any required abatement activities performed in accordance with applicable regulations.

Who Is Overseeing This Work?

The team is led by Berg Demo Group, LLC, one of the region's most experienced demolition contractors for large commercial buildings, along with Progress Environmental, a firm specializing in environmental consulting and abatement services on complex commercial and institutional projects throughout the mid-Atlantic. Both firms are coordinating closely with Montgomery County and MDE.

Below are some of the measures and specific protections that the team is putting in place to safeguard neighbors, pedestrians, and workers throughout this process.

Safety and Dust Control

The following proactive measures are in place to protect neighbors from dust, debris, and any potential air quality impacts:

• Perimeter fencing with debris screening installed around the full site boundary to contain materials and shield the surrounding neighborhood.

• Continuous atmospheric monitoring to evaluate air quality conditions and support ongoing dust-control efforts.

• The team will install approved erosion and sediment control measures in accordance with Montgomery County Department of Permitting Services requirements to help protect surrounding properties, sidewalks, streets, and stormwater systems.

• Wet methods and other dust-control measures will be used to help suppress dust and limit airborne particulates at the source. These methods may include pre-wetting materials, using water misting or spray during active removal, and applying water to debris during handling and loading, as appropriate.

Environmental Responsibility and Reduced Truck Traffic

The team is also taking steps to minimize the environmental footprint of the activities and reduce disruption to neighborhood streets:

• During the interior preparation phase, the building interiors are being stripped before removal to maximize recycling of salvageable materials and reduce what goes to the landfill. Recycling percentages are consistent with LEED and Montgomery County standards.

• All required abatement work will be completed by licensed professionals in accordance with applicable State and Federal regulations and MDE approvals, using appropriate containment, air monitoring, and third-party clearance procedures to protect workers and the surrounding community.

• Large transfer trailers are also being utilized for debris removal rather than standard dumpsters. This meaningfully reduces the number of truck trips in and out of the neighborhood.

Noise

We understand that neighbors may have concerns about noise resulting from the project. The Montgomery County Department of Environmental Protection is currently reviewing a request for approval of a Noise Suppression Plan (NSP) that would allow noise levels up to 85 dBA in accordance with the Montgomery County Noise Control Ordinance applicable to this area.

Under the plan that was submitted, noise-generating activities will be allowed only during weekdays from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m., excluding holidays.

As with air quality monitoring, the team will perform noise monitoring around the perimeter of the site periodically to assess noise levels. More information about the NSP can be found on Montgomery County’s website.

What's Next

Interior preparation of the site is now underway in anticipation of removal of the existing structures later this summer.

We will continue to provide updates as key milestones are reached and encourage neighbors to reach out with any questions or concerns through our website.

Stay in Touch

Visit friendshipcommons.com for the latest information, FAQs, and to contact the project team directly. We welcome questions, observations, and feedback. 

Thank you for your continued interest and engagement.