Trumbull, Conn. — State environmental and health officials are investigating the presence of asbestos discovered in the fill material at a construction site in Trumbull Center, prompting concerns from local businesses and residents.

According to Trumbull town officials, the Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP) and the Department of Public Health (DPH) are actively managing the investigation and cleanup efforts. The property in question is privately owned, and the owner is cooperating fully with the state-led response.

Preliminary findings from DEEP confirm that asbestos was present in certain construction materials, such as adhesives and glues. However, town officials said there were no signs of friable asbestos — the type that crumbles easily and can release harmful fibers into the air — reducing the likelihood of airborne contamination.

“DEEP found asbestos in materials such as adhesives and glues, but did not find friable or crumbly materials that have potential to be airborne,” according to town officials.

Officials emphasized that while the situation is being addressed promptly, they understand the concerns raised by the community.

“The incident is unfortunate and upsetting. While it does not appear at this time that any significant public health concerns are present, the mere mention of such contaminants can be very unsettling for businesses, employees, residents and visitors to the area,” the town said in a statement.

The town also confirmed that the private property owner will be responsible for all costs related to the remediation. Both DEEP and DPH are working to ensure the cleanup is conducted safely and efficiently.

To maintain transparency and ease community concerns, Trumbull officials are requesting that DEEP provide regular updates and hold public briefings for local residents and business owners.

Construction activities in the affected area have been temporarily paused while the site undergoes remediation. Local health departments are also on standby to provide additional assistance if needed.

The town is urging residents not to panic, reassuring the public that state agencies have protocols in place to handle such environmental hazards and that current evidence does not suggest any immediate health risks.

More updates will be shared as the investigation progresses and additional testing is completed.

Originally reported by Angela Fortuna in NBC Connecticut.