Swell Bubblegum Factory demolished this week; asbestos removed first

Bad news for candy fans came with some good news for the wrecking crew that took down Havertown's Swell Bubblegum Factory this Wednesday: according to The Daily Times, 

 Work crews dismantled interior fixtures and performed asbestos abatement over the past few months in preparation for the external demolition phase, expected to require six to eight weeks.

The crew were making way for a new YMCA building.  The Philadelphia Chewing Gum Corporation produced Swell bubble gum, El Bubble gum cigars, Cry Baby extra sour gum, Gold Rocks Nugget Bubble Gum and Joe Blo Giant bubble gum before it closed in 2003.

The factory became idle after Philadelphia Chewing Gum Corp. sold the business to Concord Confections. The Daily Times says

YMCA officials plan to construct a 70,000-square-foot, state-of-the-art facility on the factory footprint, complete with two-story atrium lobby, wellness center, three swimming pools, oversized gym, child/family center, group exercise studios and parking area.

Philadelphia YMCA President and CEO John Flynn said the Y anticipates serving more than 20,000 area residents and says it will provide 150 new permanent jobs. The grand opening is slated for spring 2013.

Flynn said the Y has obtained all permits required for razing the factory as well as comfort letters from all environmental agencies. The Y “continues to pursue finalized permits and plans for the building and construction,” Flynn said.

Since the factory's been idle for over seven years, it's good to hear that Havertown and the surrounding area will have 150 new jobs, a new YMCA, and best of all, no asbestos exposure for the demolition crew.