• EPA On-scene Coordinators conducted met with Huerfano County Economic Development, Huerfano County Fire, City of Walsenburg, and Walsenburg Police personnel to discuss traffic control and plans of mobilizing to begin demolition on September 21, 2026.

• EPA contractors began collecting background particulate and asbestos air sampling data for later comparison when the excavation, loading, and transport operations are underway. Collection of particulate monitoring data and air samples will continue throughout the entire action to monitor potential exposures and offsite migration of asbestos fibers. 

• Arrangements have been made to comply with the packaging and transportation requirements related to the disposal of ACM debris from the Site at the Southside Landfill in Pueblo, Colorado, which has been verified for compliance with the CERCLA Off-Site Rule (OSR) in 40 CFR Part 300.440.  

EPA On-scene coordinators began coordinating with CDPHE and CDOT to plan for traffic control on W. 7th St. in Walsenburg, CO. The former hospital and residence have power lines and street lights located along the entire properties perimeter except W. 7th St. To ensure the safety of staff, reduce cost, and time of the removal, EPA On-scene Coordinators are looking at viable options that will not hinder the flow of traffic, avoid removing or disconnecting power lines, and allow contractors to load material into disposal trucks directly onto W 7th St. 

• EPA On-scene Coordinators conducted an initial site visit and met with Huerfano county personnel to discuss property access, if there were any radiological/hazmat concerns - there are no concerns, access to fire hydrants to spray water during removal activities for dust control, assessing traffic control, and discussing potential disposal facilities within the area.

• EPA also coordinated with the Colorado Office of Archaeology and Historic Preservation. The State Archaeologist and Deputy State Historic Preservation Officer and Architectural Services Manager stated that the former Old Hospital/Antique Mall and residence likely no longer have historical integrity due to fire damage.