Building 898
Building 898 was a former dispensary and dental clinic, located in the northeastern corner of Lowry and shown on the map. Initial investigations of the building indicated that levels of mercury vapor measured in breathing zone air precluded unrestricted use. Additional sampling, was conducted, in 2002, to:
- establish whether removal of primary sources (sinks and associated piping) would lower mercury vapor concentrations to levels permitting unrestricted use;
- establish whether potential secondary sources are emitting mercury vapor; and
- assess potential mercury contamination of soil and building materials in the crawlspace.
The results indicated that removal of the sinks and piping would likely lower mercury vapor concentrations in breathing zones to levels permitting unrestricted use. The results also indicated that mercury associated with the flooring materials could pose a risk. Elevated mercury vapor concentrations were not detected in the crawlspace.
Based on these data, the Air Force determined that Building 898 would be demolished. CDPHE approved the Air Force Study and demolition determination with the requirement that soil samples be collected during the demolition to assess whether there had been a release of mercury to the environment.
In April 2007, LAC submitted a letter work plan outlining the pre-demolition asbestos building inspection, the collection and analysis of debris waste generated during demolition, and soil sampling to be conducted following demolition. In addition, Building 898 was within a Lowry Historic District and consultation with the State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO) was required before demolition. The work plan also described the consultation with the SHPO and their approval for demolition in January 2007.
In August 2007, asbestos abatement was conducted and Building 898 was demolished. Soil samples for mercury were taken, analyzed, and the results indicate that they are below Lowry Soil Action Levels and TCLP standards. Following demolition, asbestos was identified in the soil and access to the site was restricted.
CDPHE approved the plan for removal of the asbestos containing soil on January 22, 2008 and the project was completed in March 2008. The project report and No Further Action request was submitted to CDPHE on May 6, 2008. CDPHE aprroved the NFA request on June 18, 2008.
