Damen Silos Demolition Starts In McKinley Park

The demolition of the Damen Silos in McKinley Park commenced Monday, concluding a hard-fought preservation battle by local advocates. Heneghan Wrecking Co. is executing the demolition using high-reach excavators and cranes, avoiding explosives, and is expected to take six months, contingent on weather conditions. The first set of silos is scheduled for removal between July 28 and October 17, while the second set will follow from August 25 to October 31. Concerns have been raised by neighbors about potential air and water pollution, particularly in an area already facing significant environmental challenges.

Local residents have long advocated for transforming the silos into public green space or festival grounds. The city’s Department of Buildings issued demolition permits shortly after a safety and environmental plan was approved. MAT Limited purchased the land for $6. 5 million and aims to develop the site post-demolition. The local community remains divided over the plans for the future of the area.