Initial steps underway for renovation of defunct power plant

BURLINGTON, Vt. (AP) - Initial steps are underway for the partial demolition and renovation of a defunct Vermont power plant.

Mychamplainvalley.com reports crews will begin construction at the old Moran plant along the Burlington Waterfront after they assess contaminants at the plant, like lead and asbestos.

The plan is to keep the structure’s original steel frame and to renovate the inside with businesses, restaurants and possibly nonprofits.

Luke McGowan, director of the Community Development and Economic Office, says the goal is to preserve the steel frame because of its historical value.

McGowan says the public will have a say in what occupies the plant, and that the renovation timeline will depend on what contaminants are found.

The plant has been vacant for more than 30 years.