Tucson House tenants raise asbestos concerns as affordable housing complex renovations continue

Residents at Tucson House say dust from asbestos-related renovation work has made them feel sick and unsafe. Michael Gutierrez, who has lived at the affordable housing complex for several months, said he has been coughing and cleaning dust from his room multiple times a day.

Other tenants also reported seeing dust in rooms and common areas. Gutierrez said residents are frustrated by the length of the work and worried about possible health effects.

The U.S. Postal Service temporarily stopped delivering mail to Tucson House after a potential safety issue was reported. USPS said it worked with building management to confirm that the mail area could be safely accessed, and that service could change again if safety or access conditions shift.

The city referred questions about asbestos to Gorman and Company, the project’s construction manager. The company said a licensed contractor is removing asbestos-containing materials, while Terracon, an independent environmental consultant, provides daily oversight during the work. That includes air-quality monitoring, containment inspections and clearance testing before areas reopen.

Renovations began in March to address safety concerns and are expected to continue through 2028.