The flooding caused by tropical storm Allison cost the University $457,328. Much of the loss was covered by insurance, but the work involved still took a toll on the maintenance personnel of the University.

“The task was a big one, particularly the damage to Peltier and Gouaux Halls,” Michael Davis, director of purchasing, said.

The main problem was the asbestos-contained tile in Peltier, Gouaux and Babington Halls and the University Police Department.

“It wasn’t immediately dangerous because it wasn’t airborne, yet we still had to dispose of it in an environmentally safe way. We had to go into Gouaux Hall right away and rip all of the carpet out and dry it as fast as possible,” Davis said.

What followed was a long process of vacating the buildings and moving all of the equipment out.

“We had to move all of the computers and furniture out, get a clean air certificate, and then go back in and put new flooring in,” Davis said.

Acension Environmental was responsible for the flooring abatement. The contractors for carpeting and tile replacement were A&R Tile Center in Thibodaux, Perque’s Flooring in Houma, and Paper & Carpet House in Houma.

The content replacement was estimated at $40,000.

The carpet is yet to be replaced in Gouaux Hall due to the recent mold problem caused by the flooding.

Davis praises the maintenance personnel for the work accomplished through the long process.

“The maintenance has done an excellent job through all of this,” Davis said.