Abandoned Vibra Hospital becomes a “firefighter killer”, city takes action

SPRINGFIELD, Massachusetts (WGGB/WSHM) — The city of Springfield is now threatening legal action against the owners of the old Vibra Hospital after officials say the company failed to maintain the property and siding on the building, creating a dangerous situation for Springfield residents and putting the city’s purchase of the property in jeopardy.

Springfield Police Superintendent Larry Akers says Vibra’s inaction has led to the hospital being used as a drug den. Fire marshal BJ Calvi says people have occupied old hospital rooms and that the boards Vibra put up on the building are not up to code.

“Not barricaded and secured, not cleaned, the activities that have taken place here over the last few weeks show the extent of the damage that has been done to this building,” said Springfield Building Commissioner Steve Desilets.

The hospital closed last year and since then the shell of the facility has become a place that outrages officials. Springfield Fire Chief BJ Calvi said, “This building is what we call a ‘firehouse killer,’ there are so many hallways, floors and doors that are locked from one side.”

According to Springfield Mayor Domenic Sarno, the city was in talks to purchase the property, but given the current condition of the building, the city is reconsidering its offer.

“They have failed miserably in their responsibility to seal off, secure and maintain the property, and the city is certainly reconsidering its position,” Springfield resident Tim Sheehan told us.

On Wednesday, the city issued a court order ordering Vibra to mow the overgrown lawn, which was up to a meter long, and to board up the building to prevent anyone else from entering.

Since Friday morning, Vibra has done just that. However, fire safety officer Calvi claims that the measures taken are far from complying with regulations…

“The sheathing and securing done to the building does not meet NFBA standards,” Calvi said. “All of these boards should be secured with blind screws so they cannot be removed from the outside. This is done with drywall screws and tack screws. Anyone with a power screwdriver can remove these and get back in here, so this is an unacceptable measure to secure the building.”

At a press conference on Friday, city officials said further action could be taken against the company if the situation is not resolved.

Sarno sent a message to Vibra to clean up the mess.

“If they don’t, we will take action, but we will make sure we get every penny we spend back for the taxpayers of the city of Springfield.”

Sarno added that the city has filed paperwork with the court to assert liens on the property and has spoken to Eversource about shutting off power.

We have asked Vibra for comment on any legal action the City of Springfield may take and have not yet received a response.

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