Florida Construction News staff writer
The demolition team is hosting a public forum April 16 as work continues at the former Baptist Hospital complex at 1000 W. Moreno Street in Pensacola. The open house will begin at 5 p.m. at the Morris L. Eaddy Activity Center at Lakeview, 1110 W. Lakeview Ave.
Led by NorthStar Contracting Group with environmental oversight from Intertek PSI, the team started demolishing the building last month and is taking precautions to manage asbestos found on the site. About 97% of the asbestos is “nonfriable,” meaning it cannot become airborne if handled properly. The remaining 3%, found in pipe insulation and fire-rated doors in the main hospital, is highly friable and could pose a respiratory risk if not properly contained.
Safety measures include air filtration systems, negative air pressure machines and sealed plastic barriers. Joshua Wallace, the owner’s representative, is overseeing the project, and monthly public forums will continue to keep the community informed.
The 51-acre site is part of Pensacola’s broader redevelopment plan, offering opportunities for future community and mixed-income housing projects.
Officials estimate the project will be completed by mid-2027.
