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Rialto Square Theatre Faces Asbestos Lawsuit: A Saga of Safety, Compliance, and Resilience

The historic Rialto Square Theatre in Joliet, Illinois, has found itself at the center of a legal battle with the Illinois Attorney General's Office. The release of asbestos during an interior renovation project has prompted a lawsuit seeking thousands of dollars in fines, raising concerns about the safety and future of this beloved cultural landmark.

Uncovering the Asbestos Threat: A Cautionary Tale

Asbestos Exposure Risks and the Rialto's Predicament

The lawsuit filed by Illinois Attorney General Kwame Raoul alleges that the release of asbestos, a known human carcinogen, occurred during the renovation project at the Rialto Square Theatre. Asbestos exposure can lead to serious health issues, including asbestosis, a scarring of the lungs, as well as mesothelioma and lung cancer. The defendants named in the lawsuit are the Will County Metropolitan Exposition & Auditorium Authority, R. Berti & Son Contractor, and Universal Asbestos Removal.

Navigating the Legal Landscape: The Rialto's Response

In response to the lawsuit, the Rialto's legal counsel, James Murphy of Mahoney, Silverman and Cross, has sought to downplay the severity of the asbestos issue. Murphy has stated that the only violations identified by the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency (IEPA) were limited to the basement of the Rialto, where three bags believed to contain asbestos were found. He further asserted that the asbestos in other areas of the building does not present a health concern and that the safe method of dealing with asbestos in older buildings is to leave it in place.

Prioritizing Safety: The Rialto's Remediation Efforts

Despite the legal challenges, the Rialto has taken numerous steps to address the asbestos concerns. The theater has conducted air quality testing, and the majority of the tests have detected no asbestos. Only two tests detected a single strand of asbestos, which is significantly lower than the clearance testing standards for public schools in Illinois. The Rialto has also provided the IEPA with a cleanup plan, which is awaiting approval, and has expressed its commitment to resolving the matter and ensuring the safety of its patrons.

Navigating the Disruption: Rescheduling Events and Maintaining Operations

The asbestos issue has had a significant impact on the Rialto's operations, with the theater being forced to cancel and reschedule numerous events. Upcoming performances by comedians Marlon Wayans and Marc Maron, as well as a concert featuring Patty Griffin, Hayes Carll, and Lori McKenna, have all been affected. The Rialto has advised patrons to contact the box office for refunds or to inquire about the rescheduled dates.

Preserving the Rialto's Legacy: A Commitment to the Future

Despite the challenges, the Rialto remains committed to its long-standing legacy as a cultural hub in Joliet. The theater's legal counsel has expressed confidence that the Rialto's 98-year run will continue well into the future, with the current issues being resolved through the IEPA-approved cleanup plan and the court-enforced agreed order. The Rialto's dedication to ensuring compliance and providing a safe and welcoming space for all its visitors is a testament to its resilience and the community's unwavering support.