Mullins Management plans urgent riverwalk restoration after collapse

Mullins Management Company has submitted a request to the Lowell Conservation Commission for permission to remove fallen bricks from the riverwalk and conduct restoration work on the adjacent main power building, located at 169.1 Bridge Street. This area has been closed to the public since March 1, when a significant section of the building's parapet collapsed.

Kayla Lesson, representing Mullins Management, outlined the company's plans during the meeting, emphasizing the need for selective demolition of the remaining parapet due to safety concerns for the public. The company aims to carry out most of the work from the roof to minimize disruption on the riverwalk, which is a popular local resource.

The proposed timeline includes the removal of debris from the riverwalk within the next month, with further restoration efforts expected to begin in August or September. Lesson confirmed that the riverwalk will remain closed throughout the demolition process to ensure public safety.

In addition to the brick removal, the company is coordinating with the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) regarding asbestos remediation from materials that fell onto the riverwalk. The asbestos found was classified as non-friable, allowing for safe removal by licensed contractors.

The long-term vision for the building includes submitting a 40-hour zoning permit to the city, with plans to address concerns raised by various departments. Mullins Management is actively working to navigate these requirements and hopes to advance the project this summer.