Prime Tanning

Located in Berwick, ME, this leather-finishing tannery was responsible for the manufacturing, tanning, and finishing of leather for various industries worldwide.

How did the Prime Tanning Brownfields Redevelopment project get off the ground?

• The efforts were championed by Envision Berwick, a community organization that aims to implement the town’s comprehensive plan.
• The development of a public-private-partnership (P3) that allowed the town to acquire Prime Tanning.
• $1,200,000 in Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Brownfields Grants.
• $600,000 in supplemental Brownfields sub-grants from the Southern Maine Planning & Development Commission Revolving Loan Fund.
• Dedicated Brownfields engineers and contractors.

The developer was interested in salvaging portions of the campus, and EnviroVantage was selected to perform asbestos abatement of all pipes, panels, and roofing before systematically dismantling the majority of the buildings. This facility had been added to more than 66 times, which meant that everything was fastened together differently, including utility connections. A methodical approach, including shoring and bracing many exterior walls, was essential to keeping the structural integrity.

The demolition of a 65-foot chimney, which become structurally unsafe, was also a part of our scope, including the removal of over 8 tons of fly ash.