City Stops Damen Silos Demolition Due To Excessive Dust

City officials halted the Damen Silos demolition after inspectors noted excessive dust levels at the site. Ald. Julia Ramirez stated that the Department of Public Health issued a stop-work order for further investigation. Health Commissioner Olusimbo Ige will meet with the contractor to discuss strategies for reducing dust emissions. Neighbors and environmental groups had previously voiced concerns about dust escaping from the site and polluting the air and river.

The city monitors particulate matter, and demolition must stop if levels exceed 100 micrograms per cubic meter over a 15-minute period. Ramirez remarked that the city acted appropriately in response to the dust issues. Community members have been vigilant, noting that the demolition progressed faster than initially projected. Past incidents, like the Crawford Smokestack demolition, have heightened concerns about dust and air quality in the area.