St. Louis – Crews have removed asbestos off a downtown block, according to city officials. The Lucas Avenue and 11th Street (North) sections, which had been closed following a steam pipe break released asbestos fibers into the air, were reopened following health director Pam Walker said the test results confirmed there were no dangerous levels of asbestos. The pipe ruptured last week sent a steam cloud above downtown streets, carrying fibers from asbestos insulation with it. The city shut the streets and started swabbing surfaces for asbestos fibers. Results of surface test indicated the presence of asbestos all through the one-block portion southwest of the pipe rupture. However, air monitors have not discovered airborne asbestos fibers, according to Walker. The north of Lucas Avenue will remain closed until the ruptured pipe is repaired. According to officials, it may take up to 10 days.
