Champion Environmental Services, Inc. was awarded the hazardous material abatement, building demolition, and site clearance for Phase II at the Westlawn Housing Development in Milwaukee, WI.
The project involves 29 multiunit buildings. The initial phase will be dedicated to the abatement of asbestos containing floor tile/mastic, fittings on fiberglass insulation, transite panels, window caulk, paper duct wrap, and sink undercoating.
After the apartments are properly abated and receive final air clearances, the demolition crew will proceed with wrecking the units. Champion Environmental Services, Inc. anticipates a recycling rate of nearly 97%.
This effort is part of a larger initiative by The Wisconsin Housing and Economic Development Authority (WHEDA). According to a press release by WHEDA on December 3, 2010, the project will evolve into “ . . .the North End - Phase 2 development to construct two, five-story apartment buildings totaling 155 units of rental housing. The program requires the property to set aside 20% of its units for low and moderate income residents. Specifically, 31 apartment units in North End - Phase 2 will be set aside for households at or below 60% of Milwaukee's County Median Income”.
Phase I of Westlawn was recently completed by Champion Environmental Services, Inc.
Thursday, December 9, 2010
Tuesday, December 7, 2010
Milwaukee Smokestack
This morning, in an unforgiveable subzero wind chill, Champion Environmental Services, Inc. mobilized to start the controlled dismantlement of 186’ smokestack. The proximity of key buildings, nearby rail lines, and above ground industrial service pipes dictated that we rig a robotic Brokk to a crane and work our way down in a top to bottom fashion.
Aggressive winter wind proved frustrating for the crane operator, yet, in time, we were able to sequence an approach that clipped the pace to an appropriate tempo.
The succession of pictures is the raising of the Brokk into place and subsequent production within a half hour. If the winds cooperate, the stack will be down in five working days.
Tuesday, November 30, 2010
Winter Forecast
A faint optimism stirs within the US demolition industry while an implosive European debt situation keeps the flow of cash in check.
My dim sanguinity emanates from an unusual trend of tighter bid spreads on large private and public bid opportunities. Many firms over the past year left incalculable sums of money on the table in a desperate effort to keep machine moving.
In the cyclical trade tide of everyone waiting to get paid, the following has been a constant factor: demolition contractor fronts hundreds of thousand of dollars to get a job(s) started – subcontractor(s) dutifully perform work – client(s) sits on money owed to demolition contractor – company cannot pay subcontractor(s) - multiple entities enter into threats of liens, collections, and lawyer involvement as weekly payroll difficulties ensue.
When proposals on a million or multimillion job reflect a tight group of companies within $150,000 to $225,000 range and one guy sits at a margin 45% to 75% below the next low number. . .the winner here is essentially absorbed in an act of self inflected attrition.
The unlearned inculcation eventually reaches a critical point; the hemorrhaging of cash is unstoppable.
Incredibly, the few who stood their ground are the few left standing. Equitable competitors are staying tight on the numbers while the low-ball apparitions are starting to fade.
Nonetheless, the overall confidence within one industry contradicts unresolved European debt. The Dow Jones flitters over and under the 11,000 mark (The NIKEI around 10,000 and FTSE has a 200 point ebb/flow) over the last five days like a listless distance swimmer desperate to keep their head above water - the conservation of energy versus the necessary power to move forward is an enigma. These unknown factors dictate that essential-available reserves are kept in check for the foreseeable future.
The collective PIGS (Portugal, Ireland, Greece, Spain) have worked through Greek liabilities and as of late, the former Celtic Tiger has been revealed to be a kitten that casted a large shadow. Little ink has been vested on financial predictions concerning Portugal and Spain.
“. . . it was the epoch of incredulity . . .”
My dim sanguinity emanates from an unusual trend of tighter bid spreads on large private and public bid opportunities. Many firms over the past year left incalculable sums of money on the table in a desperate effort to keep machine moving.
In the cyclical trade tide of everyone waiting to get paid, the following has been a constant factor: demolition contractor fronts hundreds of thousand of dollars to get a job(s) started – subcontractor(s) dutifully perform work – client(s) sits on money owed to demolition contractor – company cannot pay subcontractor(s) - multiple entities enter into threats of liens, collections, and lawyer involvement as weekly payroll difficulties ensue.
When proposals on a million or multimillion job reflect a tight group of companies within $150,000 to $225,000 range and one guy sits at a margin 45% to 75% below the next low number. . .the winner here is essentially absorbed in an act of self inflected attrition.
The unlearned inculcation eventually reaches a critical point; the hemorrhaging of cash is unstoppable.
Incredibly, the few who stood their ground are the few left standing. Equitable competitors are staying tight on the numbers while the low-ball apparitions are starting to fade.
Nonetheless, the overall confidence within one industry contradicts unresolved European debt. The Dow Jones flitters over and under the 11,000 mark (The NIKEI around 10,000 and FTSE has a 200 point ebb/flow) over the last five days like a listless distance swimmer desperate to keep their head above water - the conservation of energy versus the necessary power to move forward is an enigma. These unknown factors dictate that essential-available reserves are kept in check for the foreseeable future.
The collective PIGS (Portugal, Ireland, Greece, Spain) have worked through Greek liabilities and as of late, the former Celtic Tiger has been revealed to be a kitten that casted a large shadow. Little ink has been vested on financial predictions concerning Portugal and Spain.
“. . . it was the epoch of incredulity . . .”
Former Kenosha Inn
For Chicago-area vacationers who make their weekly pilgrimage to Lake Geneva, Wisconsin, the former Kenosha Inn is an unassuming site that many have passed coming off of I94 for the scenic trek down Highway 50.
Champion Environmental Services, Inc., has been retained by a private client to demolish the structure in preparation for future development. CESI facilitated a schedule to allow the local fire department and SWAT team to conduct training exercises at the property prior to equipment mobilization.
The project should achieve a recycling rate of 98%.
Champion Environmental Services, Inc., has been retained by a private client to demolish the structure in preparation for future development. CESI facilitated a schedule to allow the local fire department and SWAT team to conduct training exercises at the property prior to equipment mobilization.
The project should achieve a recycling rate of 98%.
Monday, October 25, 2010
Remnants In Wonder Lake
The final vestiges of the Wonder Lake water tower can be viewed below; this morning, a crew dismantled the bottom of the structure support and removed eight concrete footings. Tomorrow’s work will involve loading out the steel scrap, site restoration and sealing the fire hydrant.
Wednesday, October 20, 2010
UPR – Another Job
Once again, Union Pacific Rail Road has reached out to Champion Environmental Services Inc. to facilitate the removal of transite wall paneling on the outside of a diesel shop in Melrose Park, IL. An additional quantity of interior transite will be removed totaling 18,000 square feet of transite abatement.
ACM window caulk and associated glazing will also be removed.
ACM window caulk and associated glazing will also be removed.
Smokestack Demolition – Milwaukee
Champion Environmental Services, Inc. has been retained by a private client to facilitate the asbestos abatement and demolition of a182 foot smokestack in Milwaukee, WI.
Given the placement of a powerhouse which abuts the structure, Champion Environmental Services, Inc. will employ the use of specialized equipment throughout the project.
A crane will hoist a “Brokk” to the top of the stack; this machine will then be securely attached to the side of the tower. The remote controlled robotic Brokk will slowly dismantle the smokestack one section at a time. An operator on the ground will direct the movement of the Brokk from a safe distance.
Care will be taken to scaffold nearby structures as an assurance that no damage occurs during the demolition process.
Few companies can offer this expert service on highly technical projects.
A Google Earth image of the smokestack appears below.
Given the placement of a powerhouse which abuts the structure, Champion Environmental Services, Inc. will employ the use of specialized equipment throughout the project.
A crane will hoist a “Brokk” to the top of the stack; this machine will then be securely attached to the side of the tower. The remote controlled robotic Brokk will slowly dismantle the smokestack one section at a time. An operator on the ground will direct the movement of the Brokk from a safe distance.
Care will be taken to scaffold nearby structures as an assurance that no damage occurs during the demolition process.
Few companies can offer this expert service on highly technical projects.
A Google Earth image of the smokestack appears below.
Saturday, October 16, 2010
Progress At Wonder Lake Water Tower
Significant progress has been made on the deconstruction of the Wonder Lake water tower. Mobilization began on Wednesday, October 13. Prior to being on site, Champion Environmental Services, Inc. conducted a job specific safety assessment to ensure the protection of our workers as well as the neighboring properties.
Constant communication is relayed via radio communication between the laborers performing the torch work, the crane operator, and field superintendent. Daily toolbox meetings are conducted in order to determine what portions of the tower will be dismantled, review safety protocol, and discuss progress.
The local fire department visited the job site to inspect our operations; an additional random safety audit was conducted by our insurance carrier on the second day of work – both entities were fully confident with our approach to this project.
The field team assembled for this project has extensive experience. Each day ends with a debriefing of what went well, each team members responsibility going forward, and a review of what work will take place the next day.
Constant communication is relayed via radio communication between the laborers performing the torch work, the crane operator, and field superintendent. Daily toolbox meetings are conducted in order to determine what portions of the tower will be dismantled, review safety protocol, and discuss progress.
The local fire department visited the job site to inspect our operations; an additional random safety audit was conducted by our insurance carrier on the second day of work – both entities were fully confident with our approach to this project.
The field team assembled for this project has extensive experience. Each day ends with a debriefing of what went well, each team members responsibility going forward, and a review of what work will take place the next day.
Thursday, October 7, 2010
What Demolition Wrought – The Other Side
Photo by Corey Hengen
Often, only one side of demolition is acknowledged in the process; frequently, that element focuses on taking components away from the local landscape. The central aspect of much of our work signals the beginning of something new, enhanced, and greatly improved.
There is a strong current of nationwide activism that advocates alternatives to demolition. Such campaigners readily cite environmental factors in an effort to postpone or deny knocking buildings down. Never realized in these debates is the fact that the environmental quality through these initiatives is greatly improved.
I can confidently decree that our company does more to improve the environment and health of people on any given day than most of these activists could accrue in a lifetime.
Our results are measureable and can be quantified; Champion Environmental Services, Inc. mitigates harmful lead, removes asbestos/PCB’s/mercury/Freon/ and ensures the extensive recycling of materials as opposed to the simple encumbrance of landfill dumping.
When Champion Environmental Services, Inc. demobilizes from a job site, we leave knowing that a cleaner, safer, and healthier environment for generations to come is accessible.
The Following article appeared yesterday in the “Daily Reporter”. Champion Environmental Services, Inc. is the asbestos abatement and demolition contractor for the Westlawn Project in Milwaukee, Wisconsin.
Our endeavor will provide a desirable resolution to a weathered problem. The redevelopment will eventually provide clean, safe, affordable housing to low-income families, the elderly, and those with special needs.
I want to acknowledge that the article was written by Marie Rohde; the photograph was taken by Corey Hengen, and future rendering of the site is from the Housing Authority of the City of Milwaukee.
Welcome to the neighborhood: Westlawn ready for remake (UPDATE)
Published: October 6, 2010
By Marie Rohde
The city of Milwaukee is ready to tear down the largest public housing project in the state and replace it with a neighborhood.
“When you drive by Westlawn, there’s no mistaking that it’s a housing project,” said Paul Williams, a spokesman for the Housing Authority of the City of Milwaukee. “We want to change that.”
The Westlawn housing complex, a series of barracks-style buildings, is on 75 acres bordered by 60th and 64th streets, Silver Spring Drive and the Lincoln Creek.
The redevelopment is intended to break down the boundaries that isolate the complex from the rest of the community. The new Westlawn will be a mixture of privately owned homes and housing for seniors, the disabled and the poor.
Homes that will sell at market rates will be built around the perimeter of the complex. Carolyn Esswein, adjunct assistant professor of the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee’s Department of Urban Planning who is familiar with the plans, said those homes are attractive because they will be on 35- to 40-foot-wide lots while the average city lot is 25 feet.
“That’s been done elsewhere and the homes have sold quickly,” she said. “But it could be a matter of timing, and the economy right now could have an impact. There are a lot of people who want to buy vacant lots in the city, but they can’t get over the hurdles of financing.”
The market rate homes, according to city plans, will not be built until at least 2012.
Westlawn’s isolation was like that of other public housing built in the 1950s, and the redevelopment reflects changing attitudes toward public housing across the country, Esswein said.
The new Westlawn, for instance, would have streets connecting the complex to the rest of neighborhood.
“Right now, Westlawn is cut off from the rest of the neighborhood,” Esswein said. “When they connect the streets to the rest of the neighborhood and people can walk in and out, the residents will feel like part of the larger community.”
The plans also call for a small pharmacy and 12,500 square feet of commercial development for North 60th Street and West Silver Spring Drive. That was a response to requests from residents and another effort to connect the complex to the broader community, Williams said.
Residents who live in the east half of the complex have been moved to temporary housing, and demolition of those buildings has begun, Williams said. Those residents will be offered units in the new development, he said.
Construction on the eastern half, estimated at $101 million, is expected to begin in March and be completed in 2012.
The housing authority’s nonprofit partner, Friends of Housing, an organization involved in the senior housing portion of the development, will share part of that cost, Williams said. The project also got $7.4 million in tax credits to provide incentive for the development of affordable housing for low-income residents.
The second phase of the redevelopment will be built after 2012 and be about the same size and cost.
Williams said there is a need for low-income housing in the city. The waiting list for Westlawn has been closed for six months and has some 3,000 applicants awaiting
housing assignments.
Nancy Frank, a UWM urban planning associate professor, said the renovation of other housing projects has been controversial, such as with Chicago’s infamous Cabrini Green complex, where a mixed-use development replaced a traditional housing project.
“The question is whether they will provide fewer housing units for the poor,” Frank said.
The housing in the first phase will include one building with 94 single-bedroom units set aside for seniors and the disabled, Williams said. Another 160 town houses for families will be built there, he said.
Jim Bartos, executive director of the Silver Spring Neighborhood Center, said the remake will help the housing complex better mesh with the surrounding area.
“I think it’s going to be transformative for the whole neighborhood,” he said. “It’s going to be a stimulus for other development.”
Rendering by the Housing Authority of the City of Milwaukee
Wednesday, October 6, 2010
Lake Zurich, IL
Champion Environmental Services, Inc. was recently awarded a project on behalf of the Village of Lake Zurich.
The old police station will be demolished. Additional work includes the removal of petroleum contaminated soil. The recycling goal for this initiative is 90% of clean material being reclaimed.
The old police station will be demolished. Additional work includes the removal of petroleum contaminated soil. The recycling goal for this initiative is 90% of clean material being reclaimed.
Friday, October 1, 2010
UPR Project
Champion Environmental Services, Inc. is prequalified by Union Pacific Railroad to perform asbestos abatement and demolition services across the United States. Only a handful of contractors can claim such competence – even fewer can boast of such a privileged partnership as we share with UPR.
Mobilization will begin in two weeks to abate a Chicago diesel test facility at North Pulaski and West Kinzie. The project involves the removal transite panels throughout the facility. The challenge for this project will be for our workers to maneuver aerial lifts around existing railroad tracks to gain clean access to the transit.
Mobilization will begin in two weeks to abate a Chicago diesel test facility at North Pulaski and West Kinzie. The project involves the removal transite panels throughout the facility. The challenge for this project will be for our workers to maneuver aerial lifts around existing railroad tracks to gain clean access to the transit.
Emerging Projects and Closeouts
Champion Environmental Services, Inc. is concluding interior demolition and asbestos abatement work at the Passavant Senior Housing complex in Milwaukee, WI.
Work at the US Postal processing building at Ohare is coming to an end. We performed extensive interior and exterior demolition to prep the facility for a new automated sorting system.
Mobilization for the demolition of the former Sheffield School in Sheffield, Illinois should begin next week. We are awaiting final air clearance on the asbestos abatement work.
Champion Environmental Services, Inc. was retained by a private-global client to perform asbestos abatement and building demolition at an international manufacturing plant in Beloit, Wisconsin. The company makes “ . . protein (enzyme) products [for use in] industrial applications . . .ranging from grain processing to cleaning and textiles to biofuels and biosafety”.
Work at the US Postal processing building at Ohare is coming to an end. We performed extensive interior and exterior demolition to prep the facility for a new automated sorting system.
Mobilization for the demolition of the former Sheffield School in Sheffield, Illinois should begin next week. We are awaiting final air clearance on the asbestos abatement work.
Champion Environmental Services, Inc. was retained by a private-global client to perform asbestos abatement and building demolition at an international manufacturing plant in Beloit, Wisconsin. The company makes “ . . protein (enzyme) products [for use in] industrial applications . . .ranging from grain processing to cleaning and textiles to biofuels and biosafety”.
Saturday, September 25, 2010
Wonder Lake, IL
Champion Environmental Services, Inc has been retained by the Village of Wonder Lake, Illinois to remove an aged water tower. The structure is located in a dense region of the neighborhood; as a result, we will not “drop” the tower.
The elevated water tower will be carefully dismantled. All portions of the structure will then be methodically deconstructed on the ground for recycling.
Only our most highly skilled operators, laborers, site safety supervisors, and other associated field personnel will be mobilized for this project. Extreme care must be taken to ensure insure the protection of our workers and the surrounding community.
The effort has a very tight schedule calling for one week of on-site work.
The elevated water tower will be carefully dismantled. All portions of the structure will then be methodically deconstructed on the ground for recycling.
Only our most highly skilled operators, laborers, site safety supervisors, and other associated field personnel will be mobilized for this project. Extreme care must be taken to ensure insure the protection of our workers and the surrounding community.
The effort has a very tight schedule calling for one week of on-site work.
Monday, September 20, 2010
Fire Sale 2010 Part II
The insanity continues - bid results just into our office. The scope here is an extensive amount of ACM pipe and associated fittings. While 85% of the abatement is readily exposed, some selective demolition is involved to reach part of the chases. An additional quantity of ACM floor mastic rounds the project.
Despite the public nature of these bid results, I still feel it is of little value to debase a competitor by naming each company here.
$77,550
$71,100
$63,550
$58,850
$43,820
$36,641
The numbers, particularly the low bid at $36,641, reflects troubled insensibility that has polluted our industry.
Despite the public nature of these bid results, I still feel it is of little value to debase a competitor by naming each company here.
$77,550
$71,100
$63,550
$58,850
$43,820
$36,641
The numbers, particularly the low bid at $36,641, reflects troubled insensibility that has polluted our industry.
An Overdue Update
As of late, it has become increasing more difficult to diligently keep people informed of all that is taking place at Champion Environmental Services, Inc.
The high season for asbestos abatement at schools and universities is starting to slow. None-the-less, there are several substantial demolition jobs that we are getting ready to facilitate.
Champion Environmental Services, Inc. was just awarded work on behalf of the Chicago Housing Authority to perform demolition and asbestos abatement at the Le Claire Court housing complex.
Demolition and asbestos abatement at the West Lawn Housing Authority in the City of Milwaukee just kicked off. Additional work is being performed throughout Milwaukee in an attempt to rid the community of blighted homes that have succumbed to economic misfortune. We are also helping to resolve buildings damaged by recent flooding in Milwaukee.
Mobilization will begin this week to demolish a city owned apartment complex in Wisconsin.
The Illinois EPA is in the process of approving our contaminated asbestos soil cleanup at the former Trinity Nursing School in Moline, Illinois. Analytical samples are being processed and we are expecting approval to move forward with demolition this week.
Champion received final air clearance for asbestos work completed at Chicago State University; the successful project finished ahead of schedule.
The high season for asbestos abatement at schools and universities is starting to slow. None-the-less, there are several substantial demolition jobs that we are getting ready to facilitate.
Champion Environmental Services, Inc. was just awarded work on behalf of the Chicago Housing Authority to perform demolition and asbestos abatement at the Le Claire Court housing complex.
Demolition and asbestos abatement at the West Lawn Housing Authority in the City of Milwaukee just kicked off. Additional work is being performed throughout Milwaukee in an attempt to rid the community of blighted homes that have succumbed to economic misfortune. We are also helping to resolve buildings damaged by recent flooding in Milwaukee.
Mobilization will begin this week to demolish a city owned apartment complex in Wisconsin.
The Illinois EPA is in the process of approving our contaminated asbestos soil cleanup at the former Trinity Nursing School in Moline, Illinois. Analytical samples are being processed and we are expecting approval to move forward with demolition this week.
Champion received final air clearance for asbestos work completed at Chicago State University; the successful project finished ahead of schedule.
Wednesday, August 25, 2010
The Spirit of the Beast
Headline just read from the AP “Recovery in danger as firms, homebuyers cut back”. The operative work here, “recovery” is beyond inappropriate, and at best, belies significant intellect regarding the current economic malaise.
Who is feeling any sense of recovery?
Real estate offices peddling distressed properties to opportunistic buyers.
Case in point, a new home in my neighborhood that was built and sold in 2007 for $1.4 million slid into foreclosure several months ago. Out of curiosity, I hawked the estate tracking down the details to find it to market only last week for $594,000.
I spoke directly to the listing agent who stated that there were 6 legitimate standing offers before the house even hit the MLS. Now, I rarely believe a single word any real estate agent tells me (other than mine who has been a trusted advisor for over 10 years) but I was able to confirm that there were in fact more than 6 offers.
This niche industry has its own written prophecy to be recognized on an eventual upside; this market will go away one day, but what about right now?
One of the few points in the AP article I agreed with state that “ . . .new home sales fell 12.4 percent in July from a month earlier to a seasonally adjusted annual sales pace of 276,600. That was the slowest pace on records dating back to 1963. Collectively, the past three months have been the worst on record for new home sales.
The weak sales mean fewer jobs in the construction industry, which normally powers economic recoveries. Each new home built creates, on average, the equivalent of three jobs for a year and generates about $90,000 in taxes, according to the National Association of Home Builders.
The two reports are likely to stoke fears that the economy is on the verge of slipping back into a recession.” (emphasis mine)
As I stated in My August 13, 2010 post entitled Forecasting In An Era Of Information Immediacy, in part, the immediate 24/365 news cycle alone will not provide an accurate platform to hedge the market. One must empirically derive signs and signifiers to calculate business positions.
My neighborhood reflects and confirms much of the data from the news wires.
Where new home construction was so abundant - in a fully mature northwest suburb just outside of Chicago - you could not look in any direction in any quadrant without seeing orange fencing, now, only custom, contracted projects appear.
Public servant positions have been eliminated and hiring frozen. The community chest is an empty box. Nearly every million and multi-million property is either for sale, in foreclosure, or tepidly holding out. A heavy surplus of existing homes go unsold and rentable apartments are in short supply as those who would once rent and save to purchase are now just staying put. Retail space is full with few empty spaces, but foot traffic is minimal. Several large office suite complexes are entirely empty – thankfully, they are well maintained as the only indication that all is not well is huge empty parking lots behind the buildings. A large townhouse project started 7 months ago has only one sold unit, the infrastructure of streets/sewers/lights await.
Something Wicked This Way Comes. And laughter will not save us.
Who is feeling any sense of recovery?
Real estate offices peddling distressed properties to opportunistic buyers.
Case in point, a new home in my neighborhood that was built and sold in 2007 for $1.4 million slid into foreclosure several months ago. Out of curiosity, I hawked the estate tracking down the details to find it to market only last week for $594,000.
I spoke directly to the listing agent who stated that there were 6 legitimate standing offers before the house even hit the MLS. Now, I rarely believe a single word any real estate agent tells me (other than mine who has been a trusted advisor for over 10 years) but I was able to confirm that there were in fact more than 6 offers.
This niche industry has its own written prophecy to be recognized on an eventual upside; this market will go away one day, but what about right now?
One of the few points in the AP article I agreed with state that “ . . .new home sales fell 12.4 percent in July from a month earlier to a seasonally adjusted annual sales pace of 276,600. That was the slowest pace on records dating back to 1963. Collectively, the past three months have been the worst on record for new home sales.
The weak sales mean fewer jobs in the construction industry, which normally powers economic recoveries. Each new home built creates, on average, the equivalent of three jobs for a year and generates about $90,000 in taxes, according to the National Association of Home Builders.
The two reports are likely to stoke fears that the economy is on the verge of slipping back into a recession.” (emphasis mine)
As I stated in My August 13, 2010 post entitled Forecasting In An Era Of Information Immediacy, in part, the immediate 24/365 news cycle alone will not provide an accurate platform to hedge the market. One must empirically derive signs and signifiers to calculate business positions.
My neighborhood reflects and confirms much of the data from the news wires.
Where new home construction was so abundant - in a fully mature northwest suburb just outside of Chicago - you could not look in any direction in any quadrant without seeing orange fencing, now, only custom, contracted projects appear.
Public servant positions have been eliminated and hiring frozen. The community chest is an empty box. Nearly every million and multi-million property is either for sale, in foreclosure, or tepidly holding out. A heavy surplus of existing homes go unsold and rentable apartments are in short supply as those who would once rent and save to purchase are now just staying put. Retail space is full with few empty spaces, but foot traffic is minimal. Several large office suite complexes are entirely empty – thankfully, they are well maintained as the only indication that all is not well is huge empty parking lots behind the buildings. A large townhouse project started 7 months ago has only one sold unit, the infrastructure of streets/sewers/lights await.
Something Wicked This Way Comes. And laughter will not save us.
Champion Awarded FAA Contract
Champion Environmental Services, Inc. has been awarded a project by the Federal Aviation Administration to perform asbestos abatement at two Wisconsin airports.
Champion has extensive experience with governmental entities having executed contracts with the Department of Energy, Veterans Administration, and General Services Administration.
Champion has extensive experience with governmental entities having executed contracts with the Department of Energy, Veterans Administration, and General Services Administration.
Small Project In Pewaukee, Wisconsin
Champion Environmental Services, Inc. will begin mobilizing a small crew at the former Lakeview Lanes bowling alley in Pewaukee, WI.The 15,000 square foot building is being demolished on behalf of the neighboring parish. The church will use the land to expand facilities. Champion will finish operations in about one week.
Friday, August 13, 2010
Fire Sale 2010
I have often voiced my frustration over companies who are bidding work at below cost. Ill qualified firms who are awarded basement priced contracts in turn cut corners, provide inferior quality/customer service, and at times, illegally dispose of demolition debris – or worse, illegally dispose hazardous materials.
Both public and private entities have little incentive to care when they gawk at the bottom line. Economic ambiguity allows clients to “take advantage” – the advantage often translates into an ethical (cafeteria style) mode of operation as they choose what to be concerned about.
Below is a news item that was placed on my desk by a coworker. I wish those quoted in the article could be more forthright concerning the circumstances. The truth would be a powerful morality pageant or perhaps akin to the musings of Jacob and Wilhelm Grimm – an ominous lesson for those clients who forsake professionals in favor industry bastardization.
Essentially, Champion Environmental Services, Inc. was retained to demolish a building which was environmentally abated by another company. Prior to mobilization, the EPA alerted our company that soil had become contaminated with asbestos. What initially started out as a few skid steer loads of material quickly materialized into a massive undertaking which has yet to be fully resolved.
The article uses the phrase “unauthorized work” to characterize the essence of the hindrance. I would characterize the situation as one of deliberate deception
Keep in mind, at one time, the Stanford-Binet Intelligence Scale actually designated “idiot” as a definable unit attributable to people.
Again, this article is by Dustin Lemmon of the “Quad- City Times”.
Demolition nears for Moline building
Once the last of the asbestos is removed from Moline’s old nursing school dormitory, it shouldn’t be long before the building is brought down.
But exactly when the asbestos removal will be complete is up to the weather.
Maggie Carson, a spokeswoman for the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency, which has been overseeing the asbestos cleanup, said the contractor is scheduled to resume work Monday, but rain could delay the work that is left at the seven-story building on 6th Street, south of 5th Avenue.
Joe Slavens, president of Northwest Bank and Trust, which is responsible for the demolition, said some contaminated soil has to be removed and then the EPA will conduct a soil test to determine if the land meets its standards.
“The problem has been rain in terms of delaying activity,” Slavens said. “You have to have a certain number of dry days. When it rains, you have to wait until it dries.”
Slavens said the bank already has contracted a company for the demolition work and will be ready to go as soon as the EPA agrees the work can proceed.
“The bank has been ready to write checks to the contractor for a month,” he said. “I know people in the neighborhood have been disappointed it hasn’t come down.”
The bank will need a demolition permit from the city, but that is expected to come quickly.
“It will be very quick,” Moline City Administrator Lew Steinbrecher said of securing the permit. “It’s ready to go. We can’t do anything until the EPA releases the building.”
The asbestos removal has been a lengthy process. Slavens said the building already passed an air sample test, which is the usual standard for the EPA’s asbestos testing, but there was some unauthorized work done at the site previously that required the soil tests and a higher standard.
Steinbrecher said the ground needs to be cleared so once the building is brought down, either with a wrecking ball or other construction equipment, the rubble can be left on the bluff.
“If the EPA will clear the building of asbestos, the rubble can be crushed and left on the site with top soil coverage,” he said.
Once the site is cleared, the city will take ownership of the property and seek a developer for a housing development with 80 residential units, Steinbrecher said, adding the homes will not be built on the area where the rubble is left.
Carson would not give an estimate for how much longer the asbestos cleanup will take.
Dustin Lemmon of the “Quad- City Times”
Both public and private entities have little incentive to care when they gawk at the bottom line. Economic ambiguity allows clients to “take advantage” – the advantage often translates into an ethical (cafeteria style) mode of operation as they choose what to be concerned about.
Below is a news item that was placed on my desk by a coworker. I wish those quoted in the article could be more forthright concerning the circumstances. The truth would be a powerful morality pageant or perhaps akin to the musings of Jacob and Wilhelm Grimm – an ominous lesson for those clients who forsake professionals in favor industry bastardization.
Essentially, Champion Environmental Services, Inc. was retained to demolish a building which was environmentally abated by another company. Prior to mobilization, the EPA alerted our company that soil had become contaminated with asbestos. What initially started out as a few skid steer loads of material quickly materialized into a massive undertaking which has yet to be fully resolved.
The article uses the phrase “unauthorized work” to characterize the essence of the hindrance. I would characterize the situation as one of deliberate deception
Keep in mind, at one time, the Stanford-Binet Intelligence Scale actually designated “idiot” as a definable unit attributable to people.
Again, this article is by Dustin Lemmon of the “Quad- City Times”.
Demolition nears for Moline building
Once the last of the asbestos is removed from Moline’s old nursing school dormitory, it shouldn’t be long before the building is brought down.
But exactly when the asbestos removal will be complete is up to the weather.
Maggie Carson, a spokeswoman for the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency, which has been overseeing the asbestos cleanup, said the contractor is scheduled to resume work Monday, but rain could delay the work that is left at the seven-story building on 6th Street, south of 5th Avenue.
Joe Slavens, president of Northwest Bank and Trust, which is responsible for the demolition, said some contaminated soil has to be removed and then the EPA will conduct a soil test to determine if the land meets its standards.
“The problem has been rain in terms of delaying activity,” Slavens said. “You have to have a certain number of dry days. When it rains, you have to wait until it dries.”
Slavens said the bank already has contracted a company for the demolition work and will be ready to go as soon as the EPA agrees the work can proceed.
“The bank has been ready to write checks to the contractor for a month,” he said. “I know people in the neighborhood have been disappointed it hasn’t come down.”
The bank will need a demolition permit from the city, but that is expected to come quickly.
“It will be very quick,” Moline City Administrator Lew Steinbrecher said of securing the permit. “It’s ready to go. We can’t do anything until the EPA releases the building.”
The asbestos removal has been a lengthy process. Slavens said the building already passed an air sample test, which is the usual standard for the EPA’s asbestos testing, but there was some unauthorized work done at the site previously that required the soil tests and a higher standard.
Steinbrecher said the ground needs to be cleared so once the building is brought down, either with a wrecking ball or other construction equipment, the rubble can be left on the bluff.
“If the EPA will clear the building of asbestos, the rubble can be crushed and left on the site with top soil coverage,” he said.
Once the site is cleared, the city will take ownership of the property and seek a developer for a housing development with 80 residential units, Steinbrecher said, adding the homes will not be built on the area where the rubble is left.
Carson would not give an estimate for how much longer the asbestos cleanup will take.
Dustin Lemmon of the “Quad- City Times”
Forecasting In An Era Of Information Immediacy
The Premise
Research, at one time, was an art. In the most pure form, I would point to the work of Professor James Murray, a key architect of the OED (Oxford English Dictionary).
Technology has eroded our ability to critically render appropriate solutions to complex problems.
The base reality of technological deficiency can be traced to the passive nature of discerning information that is spat out in an instant. A key phrase search of “financial forecasting” on Google will yield 6,340,000 results in 0.18 seconds. The only difficulty is to page through endless entries paring for relevance in the content that is sought.
Passivity is the operative word for context – the effort in relying on Internet based research thwarts cognitive exertion while simultaneously influencing/reinforcing the notion of instant gratification. Such fulfillment in turn indurates one’s ability to discern signs and signifiers which will lead to an answer.
I dare anyone to accurately predict local housing outlook in terms of sales, starts, and foreclosures purely based on information derived from a computer. Certainly, the quantity of results will provide a host of analytical statistics and figures allowing you to pound away at lucid metrics. Speed and sheer magnitude of information will provide a false sense of certainty.
The Nexus
Now, I must digress. Yesterday, I received a phone call from a friend who owns a company that provides waste reduction solutions and recycling ideas for contractors and businesses. They are based in Milwaukee, Wisconsin but have clients across the US. The call focused on recommitting our decision to share business leads and just catch up.
I shared how our business was holding up and in turn requested the same from my friend who tepidly revealed that positive cash flow was becoming an issue. This lead to an in-depth debriefing of specific markets she was attempting to pierce along with an ebb/flow charting of trends.
William Chester Minor
Direct sourcing (as defined by me and not in reference to a micro economic trend) provides an active basis to construe value and implication. To accurately recognize local housing trends would require, at a minimum, the following commitment:
1. Drive through the neighborhood in question taking note of for sale signage, construction activity [both public and private], general business activity of restaurants, retail, and food stores, number of people engaged in leisure, service station prices, public works visibility – in other words, a rather scrupulous empirical exercise.
2. Read the local newspaper(s).
3. Call and go into the local banks and speak to the mortgage lenders about rates/activity.
4. Call and go into the local real estate office and inquire about local listings and foreclosure activity.
5. Visit the town hall and get latest village news.
6. Get six months of crime reporting from local police.
Techno-snobs will scoff and state that all of the above could be accomplished from the office employing a few clicks of the mouse.
Herein lies the nub; the physicality of engaging the task requires that an individual contemplate and cerebrally absorb such undertaking. Active intellectual ownership forces one to infer parallels and make connections. An endeavor of such activity necessitates planning, relegating hierarchal importance, and reflective contemplation.
When will demolition and environmental activity pick up? Where do you think one should look for the solution? Go ahead – think! I guarantee our answers will differ.
I will look to the mining industry.
Research, at one time, was an art. In the most pure form, I would point to the work of Professor James Murray, a key architect of the OED (Oxford English Dictionary).
Technology has eroded our ability to critically render appropriate solutions to complex problems.
The base reality of technological deficiency can be traced to the passive nature of discerning information that is spat out in an instant. A key phrase search of “financial forecasting” on Google will yield 6,340,000 results in 0.18 seconds. The only difficulty is to page through endless entries paring for relevance in the content that is sought.
Passivity is the operative word for context – the effort in relying on Internet based research thwarts cognitive exertion while simultaneously influencing/reinforcing the notion of instant gratification. Such fulfillment in turn indurates one’s ability to discern signs and signifiers which will lead to an answer.
I dare anyone to accurately predict local housing outlook in terms of sales, starts, and foreclosures purely based on information derived from a computer. Certainly, the quantity of results will provide a host of analytical statistics and figures allowing you to pound away at lucid metrics. Speed and sheer magnitude of information will provide a false sense of certainty.
The Nexus
Now, I must digress. Yesterday, I received a phone call from a friend who owns a company that provides waste reduction solutions and recycling ideas for contractors and businesses. They are based in Milwaukee, Wisconsin but have clients across the US. The call focused on recommitting our decision to share business leads and just catch up.
I shared how our business was holding up and in turn requested the same from my friend who tepidly revealed that positive cash flow was becoming an issue. This lead to an in-depth debriefing of specific markets she was attempting to pierce along with an ebb/flow charting of trends.
William Chester Minor
Direct sourcing (as defined by me and not in reference to a micro economic trend) provides an active basis to construe value and implication. To accurately recognize local housing trends would require, at a minimum, the following commitment:
1. Drive through the neighborhood in question taking note of for sale signage, construction activity [both public and private], general business activity of restaurants, retail, and food stores, number of people engaged in leisure, service station prices, public works visibility – in other words, a rather scrupulous empirical exercise.
2. Read the local newspaper(s).
3. Call and go into the local banks and speak to the mortgage lenders about rates/activity.
4. Call and go into the local real estate office and inquire about local listings and foreclosure activity.
5. Visit the town hall and get latest village news.
6. Get six months of crime reporting from local police.
Techno-snobs will scoff and state that all of the above could be accomplished from the office employing a few clicks of the mouse.
Herein lies the nub; the physicality of engaging the task requires that an individual contemplate and cerebrally absorb such undertaking. Active intellectual ownership forces one to infer parallels and make connections. An endeavor of such activity necessitates planning, relegating hierarchal importance, and reflective contemplation.
When will demolition and environmental activity pick up? Where do you think one should look for the solution? Go ahead – think! I guarantee our answers will differ.
I will look to the mining industry.
Wednesday, August 11, 2010
2010 - Is It Over Yet?
Mark Anthony of “Demolition News” has become an invaluable resource concerning an exhaustive number of issues related to the demolition and environmental industry. His insights span the European landscape then pierce across the Atlantic with empirical precession.
While I have yet to meet Mark Anthony in person, our evolving friendship echoes an epistolary tradition visa via the advantages of technology, namely, the Internet.
A recent article by Anthony entitled, “Comment – How do we keep outsiders out…?” addresses the problematic atmosphere of unqualified contractors creeping into public and private bid opportunities. I have spoken ad nauseam of the safety caveat owners create when they hire incompetent outfits; the greater concern is my inability to clarify why such companies have not collapsed under the current economic mass.
As I stated to Anthony in a recent letter, in part, inept firms are “ . . . invading bid opportunities like rabid roaches”.
The very basic root of economic tenets guiding the winners/losers of a recession has been infected by distemper.
Here is a link to the article written by Mark Anthony.
http://www.demolitionnews.com/2010/07/29/comment-how-do-we-keep-outsiders-out/
While I have yet to meet Mark Anthony in person, our evolving friendship echoes an epistolary tradition visa via the advantages of technology, namely, the Internet.
A recent article by Anthony entitled, “Comment – How do we keep outsiders out…?” addresses the problematic atmosphere of unqualified contractors creeping into public and private bid opportunities. I have spoken ad nauseam of the safety caveat owners create when they hire incompetent outfits; the greater concern is my inability to clarify why such companies have not collapsed under the current economic mass.
As I stated to Anthony in a recent letter, in part, inept firms are “ . . . invading bid opportunities like rabid roaches”.
The very basic root of economic tenets guiding the winners/losers of a recession has been infected by distemper.
Here is a link to the article written by Mark Anthony.
http://www.demolitionnews.com/2010/07/29/comment-how-do-we-keep-outsiders-out/
Housing Authority of the City of Milwaukee
Champion Environmental Services, Inc. has been awarded the Westlawn hazardous materials abatement and building demolition project in Milwaukee, Wisconsin.
The extensive project will involve the demolition and asbestos abatement of 149 separate multifamily housing units.
The full extent of the project is best illustrated by the photograph below which outlines the boundaries of the initiative.
The extensive project will involve the demolition and asbestos abatement of 149 separate multifamily housing units.
The full extent of the project is best illustrated by the photograph below which outlines the boundaries of the initiative.
Wednesday, August 4, 2010
Chicago State University
Champion Environmental Services, Inc. will begin mobilizing Friday, August 6, 2010 to begin an emergency asbestos abatement job related to roof damages at the School of Education.
The project will involve full ceiling demolition on the third and fourth floors followed by the removal of asbestos fireproofing on the exposed beams. Approximately 42,000 square feet of ACM will be removed. After the beams are recoated with non-ACM fireproofing, Champion will begin the removal of asbestos 9”X9” floor tile and contaminated black mastic.
Champion Environmental Services, Inc. will facilitate all work at Chicago State University in 20 working days.
The project will involve full ceiling demolition on the third and fourth floors followed by the removal of asbestos fireproofing on the exposed beams. Approximately 42,000 square feet of ACM will be removed. After the beams are recoated with non-ACM fireproofing, Champion will begin the removal of asbestos 9”X9” floor tile and contaminated black mastic.
Champion Environmental Services, Inc. will facilitate all work at Chicago State University in 20 working days.
Monday, July 26, 2010
Update
While my presence has been absent from diligently updating this company blog our company has been engaged in variety of environmental and demolition projects making the summer months rather busy.
We are finalizing asbestos work at the following Illinois schools which include projects at:
Woodstock Schools - Olson Elem/Clay Academy
Macomb School District - 3 schools
Morton High School, Morton, IL
Brookwood School, Glenwood, IL
Batavia High School – Emergency Job
Grayslake Middle School, Grayslake, IL
NSSEO- North Suburban Special Ed, Mt Prospect, IL
Interior demolition work is winding down at Thornridge High School in Doltan, Bloom Trail High School in Chicago Heights, and Phase One of the Elgin Community College initiative.
In Wisconsin, asbestos abatement continues at the Wisconsin Avenue properties in preparation of demolition. Ongoing projects continue at Lapham Park, Marquette University, and the University of Wisconsin, Madison School of Human Ecology.
A crew is mobilizing today in Pewaukee, Wisconsin to begin demolition of the former Lakeview Lanes bowling alley.
We are finalizing asbestos work at the following Illinois schools which include projects at:
Woodstock Schools - Olson Elem/Clay Academy
Macomb School District - 3 schools
Morton High School, Morton, IL
Brookwood School, Glenwood, IL
Batavia High School – Emergency Job
Grayslake Middle School, Grayslake, IL
NSSEO- North Suburban Special Ed, Mt Prospect, IL
Interior demolition work is winding down at Thornridge High School in Doltan, Bloom Trail High School in Chicago Heights, and Phase One of the Elgin Community College initiative.
In Wisconsin, asbestos abatement continues at the Wisconsin Avenue properties in preparation of demolition. Ongoing projects continue at Lapham Park, Marquette University, and the University of Wisconsin, Madison School of Human Ecology.
A crew is mobilizing today in Pewaukee, Wisconsin to begin demolition of the former Lakeview Lanes bowling alley.
Tuesday, June 1, 2010
Century City Update
The building separation at Century City is complete. Our selective cut, while an extremely complicated undertaking, proved rather successful. Extensive site work which included concrete slab removal – up to 8 feet thick in some areas – continues. Note the third picture below, the size of the concrete block in relation to the dump truck, this illustrates the magnitude of concrete we have encountered during removal.
Thursday, May 20, 2010
State of the State Part II
Back on March 1, 2010, I solicited several assumptions regarding how local and global economic forces were influencing our bottom line. An AP report out of New York released just moments ago suggests that my key assertions were correct.
On March 1 I stated, “Market indicators remain in an unnerving pattern; one of the more intimidating trends I noted was a triumvirate blend of a strong dollar, positive gold movement, paired with creeping oil – I dare someone to place this scenario into sane context”.
The AP today: “The euro is falling again and continues to hover near a four-year low. It has become a key indicator for confidence in Europe's economy. The euro fell to $1.2318, a day after hitting $1.2146 . . . Crude oil fell $2.73 to $67.14 per barrel on the New York Mercantile Exchange.”
Gold remains at $1,191.80 an ounce despite loosing approximately 1% over two days.
I further stated on March 1 that “While January housing sales posted an increase, numbers also indicated a slight uptick in housing starts yet more bubbles await us. Significant commercial lending is coming due and as a result, many speculate more bank failures. Additionally, consumer spending remains tepid, no significant positive impact coming out of job creation, and European dept reflected in the so called “PIGS” - Portugal, Ireland, Greece and Spain, point to the potential for another significant economic slide.” My added emphasis is vital given such an accurate prognosis; as the AP notes today: “. . .the [Labor] department said new claims for unemployment benefits rose by 25,000 to 471,000, their largest amount in three months. . . Greek workers again took to the streets protesting recently approved budget cuts that were necessary for the country to receive a bailout. Greece was able to repay debt that came due Wednesday only because it had access to a rescue package from the European Union and International Monetary Fund. . . in afternoon trading, Britain's FTSE 100 fell 2.6, Germany's DAX index dropped 2.8 percent, and France's CAC-40 plummeted 3.9 percent.”
Certainly I take no pride in being correct on these assumptions as global – economically driven factors reach directly into the fissure of our cavernous lint- filled pockets. So where do we sit in the state of the state?
I encourage you to visit Mark Anthony over at “Demolition News” and read his posting, Comment – Is demolition perpetuating the recession…? Here is the link:
www.demolitionnews.com/2010/05/20/comment-is-demolition-perpetuating-the-recession
My apologies as I cannot get the link to set so you must copy/paste.
On March 1 I stated, “Market indicators remain in an unnerving pattern; one of the more intimidating trends I noted was a triumvirate blend of a strong dollar, positive gold movement, paired with creeping oil – I dare someone to place this scenario into sane context”.
The AP today: “The euro is falling again and continues to hover near a four-year low. It has become a key indicator for confidence in Europe's economy. The euro fell to $1.2318, a day after hitting $1.2146 . . . Crude oil fell $2.73 to $67.14 per barrel on the New York Mercantile Exchange.”
Gold remains at $1,191.80 an ounce despite loosing approximately 1% over two days.
I further stated on March 1 that “While January housing sales posted an increase, numbers also indicated a slight uptick in housing starts yet more bubbles await us. Significant commercial lending is coming due and as a result, many speculate more bank failures. Additionally, consumer spending remains tepid, no significant positive impact coming out of job creation, and European dept reflected in the so called “PIGS” - Portugal, Ireland, Greece and Spain, point to the potential for another significant economic slide.” My added emphasis is vital given such an accurate prognosis; as the AP notes today: “. . .the [Labor] department said new claims for unemployment benefits rose by 25,000 to 471,000, their largest amount in three months. . . Greek workers again took to the streets protesting recently approved budget cuts that were necessary for the country to receive a bailout. Greece was able to repay debt that came due Wednesday only because it had access to a rescue package from the European Union and International Monetary Fund. . . in afternoon trading, Britain's FTSE 100 fell 2.6, Germany's DAX index dropped 2.8 percent, and France's CAC-40 plummeted 3.9 percent.”
Certainly I take no pride in being correct on these assumptions as global – economically driven factors reach directly into the fissure of our cavernous lint- filled pockets. So where do we sit in the state of the state?
I encourage you to visit Mark Anthony over at “Demolition News” and read his posting, Comment – Is demolition perpetuating the recession…? Here is the link:
www.demolitionnews.com/2010/05/20/comment-is-demolition-perpetuating-the-recession
My apologies as I cannot get the link to set so you must copy/paste.
Friday, May 14, 2010
Brief Update
It was my intention to update this Blog on a regular basis yet circumstances borne of late have dictated that I focus my energy on a project which will have a significant impact on the greater Milwaukee market in the coming months - more information to follow as prudence allows in the timing of such a news release.
Otherwise, a brief news article from the “The Dispatch and The Rock Island Argus” from our work at the former Trinity Nursing School in Moline, Illinois. Following cleanup, Champion Environmental Services, Inc. will demolish the associated structures.
Debris removal begun at nurses dormitory in Moline
MOLINE-- Contractors from Champion Environmental have begun removing debris piles and two inches of top soil from the former nurses dormitory in One Moline Place.
The dirt and debris has to be removed because it contains asbestos. Moline city administrator Lew Steinbrecher said the next step, before demolition of the building, will be testing the upper floors for residual asbestos.
"Depending on the results, a decision will be made about demolition," he said. "We are approaching the time when hopefully a date will be set relatively soon for demolition of the building."
One Moline Place is a residential development between 4th and 8th streets and 5th and 11th avenues first announced in 2002. While Phase I was partially developed, Phase II-- where the dormitory sits -- and Phase III never were started.
The property is owned by Mike Shamsie, but through an agreement with Northwest Bank and Trust and the city, he will give Moline the Phase II and III land after demolition is complete. A new developer plans to take over Phase I and complete the development.
Mr. Steinbrecher said an environmental consultant is coordinating the clean-up with Champion Environmental, Mr. Shamsie and the Illinois EPA.
By Dawn Neuses, dneuses@qconline.com
Otherwise, a brief news article from the “The Dispatch and The Rock Island Argus” from our work at the former Trinity Nursing School in Moline, Illinois. Following cleanup, Champion Environmental Services, Inc. will demolish the associated structures.
Debris removal begun at nurses dormitory in Moline
MOLINE-- Contractors from Champion Environmental have begun removing debris piles and two inches of top soil from the former nurses dormitory in One Moline Place.
The dirt and debris has to be removed because it contains asbestos. Moline city administrator Lew Steinbrecher said the next step, before demolition of the building, will be testing the upper floors for residual asbestos.
"Depending on the results, a decision will be made about demolition," he said. "We are approaching the time when hopefully a date will be set relatively soon for demolition of the building."
One Moline Place is a residential development between 4th and 8th streets and 5th and 11th avenues first announced in 2002. While Phase I was partially developed, Phase II-- where the dormitory sits -- and Phase III never were started.
The property is owned by Mike Shamsie, but through an agreement with Northwest Bank and Trust and the city, he will give Moline the Phase II and III land after demolition is complete. A new developer plans to take over Phase I and complete the development.
Mr. Steinbrecher said an environmental consultant is coordinating the clean-up with Champion Environmental, Mr. Shamsie and the Illinois EPA.
By Dawn Neuses, dneuses@qconline.com
Tuesday, April 20, 2010
Monday, April 19, 2010
Tower Automotive-Century City
Champion Environmental Services, Inc. is kicking off the redevelopment of Milwaukee’s shuttered Tower Automotive property as part of the city's $34.6 million plan to redevelop an 84-acre portion of the site. Most of the area is being transformed into a business park; Spanish train manufacturer Talgo is the first tenet to lease a portion of the development.
Century City will be the new venue for U.S. high-speed passenger rail manufacturing and assembly creating 125 direct jobs in Wisconsin and about 450 indirect jobs through vendors throughout the Midwest.
In January, Governor Doyle announced Wisconsin will receive $823 million in American Recovery and Reinvestment Act funds to build high-speed rail service to connect its centers of commerce. Wisconsin is receiving $810 million to build high-speed passenger rail service between Milwaukee and Madison, $12 million to improve service between Chicago and Milwaukee, and $1 million to make final determinations on a route between Wisconsin and the Twin Cities – the next step toward connecting Chicago, Milwaukee and Madison with the Twin Cities.
Champion Environmental Services, Inc. is proud to support this important economic initiative. Some pictures of our demolition work are below.
Century City will be the new venue for U.S. high-speed passenger rail manufacturing and assembly creating 125 direct jobs in Wisconsin and about 450 indirect jobs through vendors throughout the Midwest.
In January, Governor Doyle announced Wisconsin will receive $823 million in American Recovery and Reinvestment Act funds to build high-speed rail service to connect its centers of commerce. Wisconsin is receiving $810 million to build high-speed passenger rail service between Milwaukee and Madison, $12 million to improve service between Chicago and Milwaukee, and $1 million to make final determinations on a route between Wisconsin and the Twin Cities – the next step toward connecting Chicago, Milwaukee and Madison with the Twin Cities.
Champion Environmental Services, Inc. is proud to support this important economic initiative. Some pictures of our demolition work are below.
Wednesday, March 3, 2010
What Demolition Wrought-Another Tale
I firmly believe that it is essential to highlight the outcomes of our efforts to dismiss the fallacy that demolition is singular destruction. The Fact is that our environmental and demolition work not only betters the environment, but creates economic opportunity. While many would bemoan the closing and subsequent demolition the car dealership in Wauwatosa, the new Dave & Busters will generate additional jobs, enhance the local tax base, and provide a quality venue for residents.
80% of the demolition debris from the former dealership was recycled; additionally, Champion Environmental Services, Inc. removed two buried underground fuel storage tanks. I can definitively state that our company does more for the environment on any given day than most self-proclaimed eco-friendly people achieve in a lifetime.
Below is an article that appeared in the “Biz Times Real Estate Weekly”.
Dave and Busters opens in Wauwatosa
Dallas-based Dave & Busters, a national chain of restaurant and entertainment centers, this week opened its first Wisconsin location at 2201 N. Mayfair Road in Wauwatosa.
The 35,000-square-foot Dave & Busters building was built on a site formerly occupied by a Ewald Chrysler/Dodge/Jeep dealership.
The Wauwatosa Dave & Busters location has nearly 200 games ( including classic skill and arcade games plus simulators and billiards), 24 flat screen televisions and a high definition projector screen, a full bar, restaurant and two private conference rooms.
“Dave & Buster’s is a totally new concept in the greater Milwaukee area where guests can eat, drink and play under one roof,” said Wauwatosa restaurant general manger Esther Gomez.
On average, Dave & Buster’s stores get half a million guests each year. Most visitors are adults 21 years of age and older.
“People in Wisconsin love to go out and have fun,” said Wauwatosa Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Meg McKenna. “We have been asking for a place like this for a long time. Dave & Buster’s will be a great addition to the community.”
Tuesday, March 2, 2010
School of Human Ecology
Champion Environmental Services, Inc. is getting ready to submit notification for work at the University of Wisconsin School of Human Ecology.
The scope of work involves multifaceted tasks including building demolition, asbestos abatement, selective/interior demolition, and historic salvage.
A small two story brick building approximately 4,264 square feet will be demolished. An additional three story brick building measuring 24,000 square feet will also be wrecked; various historic portions of this structure will be dismantled and preserved.
The School of Human Ecology is a five story building encompassing 76,000 square feet. All five floors will be gutted from floor to ceiling. We will also be responsible for removing/recycling the hydraulic oils from the elevators prior to demolition of the elevator.
This project should begin in the week of March 15, 2010.
The scope of work involves multifaceted tasks including building demolition, asbestos abatement, selective/interior demolition, and historic salvage.
A small two story brick building approximately 4,264 square feet will be demolished. An additional three story brick building measuring 24,000 square feet will also be wrecked; various historic portions of this structure will be dismantled and preserved.
The School of Human Ecology is a five story building encompassing 76,000 square feet. All five floors will be gutted from floor to ceiling. We will also be responsible for removing/recycling the hydraulic oils from the elevators prior to demolition of the elevator.
This project should begin in the week of March 15, 2010.
Monday, March 1, 2010
What Demolition Wrought
A newswire release today from Marquette University announces the groundbreaking for the new School of Engineering facility. Champion Environmental Services, Inc. was proud to have initiated this project providing building demolition services. Below is the press release from the university.
(Media-Newswire.com) - Marquette University will break ground for a new engineering facility, called the Discovery Learning Complex, Friday, March 5.
“With a history that spans more than a century, Marquette’s College of Engineering continues to educate engineers with the highest level of technical skill,” said Rev. Robert A. Wild, S.J., president of Marquette University. “Today we demand even more of our engineers. This new facility will foster the development of the skills we need in the 21st century – innovative thinking, creative problem solving of real world issues, and experience in team dynamics.”
The building will feature an innovative Discovery Learning Laboratory and a two-story engineering materials and structural testing laboratory, as well as other new teaching and research laboratories, common areas for students and office space. The five-story, 115,000 square foot building is being constructed on the south side of Wisconsin Avenue between 16th and 17th Streets. Demolition of several university-owned buildings on the site has been completed, with materials recycled. The new $35 million building is the first phase of a $100 million, 250,000 square foot facility.
The Discovery Learning Complex, being designed and built by Opus North Corporation, is expected to be ready for occupancy by August 2011.
“The time is now to innovate. This facility, a gift to the Milwaukee community, will focus on building an enhanced workforce for Milwaukee, Wisconsin and the United States -- graduates who know and understand engineering innovation and how to quickly embed the appropriate innovation in products the marketplace desires,” said OPUS Dean of Engineering Stan Jaskolski. “Our students and faculty will work with local industries and businesses in the development and design of innovative, real-world products, processes and services. In addition, this showcase facility will inspire elementary, middle and high school students to consider engineering careers as they participate in hands-on, exciting projects and innovative discoveries.”
Jaskolski said the university has raised $70 million in cash and long-term pledges and is aggressively fundraising for an additional $50 million in cash so the entire DLC can be completed as soon as possible.
The groundbreaking ceremony on March 5 will begin at 11 a.m. in parking lot N, in the 500 block of North 16th Street, just south of the construction site. Speakers will include Marquette President Robert A. Wild; OPUS Dean of Engineering Stan Jaskolski; Cara Brigman, a student in biomedical engineering; and Kathy Scherbarth, an alumna who serves on the college’s 41-member National Advisory Council, which is meeting that day.
Mary Pat Pfeil
Senior Director of University Communication
( 414 ) 288-4719 ( office )
(Media-Newswire.com) - Marquette University will break ground for a new engineering facility, called the Discovery Learning Complex, Friday, March 5.
“With a history that spans more than a century, Marquette’s College of Engineering continues to educate engineers with the highest level of technical skill,” said Rev. Robert A. Wild, S.J., president of Marquette University. “Today we demand even more of our engineers. This new facility will foster the development of the skills we need in the 21st century – innovative thinking, creative problem solving of real world issues, and experience in team dynamics.”
The building will feature an innovative Discovery Learning Laboratory and a two-story engineering materials and structural testing laboratory, as well as other new teaching and research laboratories, common areas for students and office space. The five-story, 115,000 square foot building is being constructed on the south side of Wisconsin Avenue between 16th and 17th Streets. Demolition of several university-owned buildings on the site has been completed, with materials recycled. The new $35 million building is the first phase of a $100 million, 250,000 square foot facility.
The Discovery Learning Complex, being designed and built by Opus North Corporation, is expected to be ready for occupancy by August 2011.
“The time is now to innovate. This facility, a gift to the Milwaukee community, will focus on building an enhanced workforce for Milwaukee, Wisconsin and the United States -- graduates who know and understand engineering innovation and how to quickly embed the appropriate innovation in products the marketplace desires,” said OPUS Dean of Engineering Stan Jaskolski. “Our students and faculty will work with local industries and businesses in the development and design of innovative, real-world products, processes and services. In addition, this showcase facility will inspire elementary, middle and high school students to consider engineering careers as they participate in hands-on, exciting projects and innovative discoveries.”
Jaskolski said the university has raised $70 million in cash and long-term pledges and is aggressively fundraising for an additional $50 million in cash so the entire DLC can be completed as soon as possible.
The groundbreaking ceremony on March 5 will begin at 11 a.m. in parking lot N, in the 500 block of North 16th Street, just south of the construction site. Speakers will include Marquette President Robert A. Wild; OPUS Dean of Engineering Stan Jaskolski; Cara Brigman, a student in biomedical engineering; and Kathy Scherbarth, an alumna who serves on the college’s 41-member National Advisory Council, which is meeting that day.
Mary Pat Pfeil
Senior Director of University Communication
( 414 ) 288-4719 ( office )
The State of the State
February proved to be far busier than what is reflected in postings here. The bid calendar was experiencing so much activity that it was not possible to meet the needs of all the RFP’s. I am hesitant to forecast that a strong first quarter will carry into the second quarter, but I remain cautiously optimistic.
Market indicators remain in an unnerving pattern; one of the more intimidating trends I noted was a triumvirate blend of a strong dollar, positive gold movement, paired with creeping oil – I dare someone to place this scenario into sane context.
While January housing sales posted an increase, numbers also indicated a slight uptick in housing starts yet more bubbles await us. Significant commercial lending is coming due and as a result, many speculate more bank failures. Additionally, consumer spending remains tepid, no significant positive impact coming out of job creation, and European dept reflected in the so called “PIGS” - Portugal, Ireland, Greece and Spain, point to the potential for another significant economic slide.
Amidst the present state of falling in and out of economic consciousness, many have asked, how does this translate into the types of demolition/environmental work that are coming into our office?
Despondently, public bid work continues to outpace private-negotiated opportunities by a significant margin. Only 18% of all work we have bid so far in the first quarter could be characterized as private. To further indurate the situation is that the folks who are facilitating private deals are no longer entertaining one or two trusted companies to bid a job, we are often battling five to seven competitors for a “nice” deal.
Healthy margins are becoming more and more difficult to achieve yet we remain committed to aggressive positioning. Geographically, a national job order contract with a Fortune 500 company is creating environmental abatement opportunities across the United States. Positioning our company on these abatement jobs will allow demolition opportunities occur – operations are poised to meet these new prospects. We continue to aggressively market our “green” approach to demolition and have advanced new contacts visa via references.
Market indicators remain in an unnerving pattern; one of the more intimidating trends I noted was a triumvirate blend of a strong dollar, positive gold movement, paired with creeping oil – I dare someone to place this scenario into sane context.
While January housing sales posted an increase, numbers also indicated a slight uptick in housing starts yet more bubbles await us. Significant commercial lending is coming due and as a result, many speculate more bank failures. Additionally, consumer spending remains tepid, no significant positive impact coming out of job creation, and European dept reflected in the so called “PIGS” - Portugal, Ireland, Greece and Spain, point to the potential for another significant economic slide.
Amidst the present state of falling in and out of economic consciousness, many have asked, how does this translate into the types of demolition/environmental work that are coming into our office?
Despondently, public bid work continues to outpace private-negotiated opportunities by a significant margin. Only 18% of all work we have bid so far in the first quarter could be characterized as private. To further indurate the situation is that the folks who are facilitating private deals are no longer entertaining one or two trusted companies to bid a job, we are often battling five to seven competitors for a “nice” deal.
Healthy margins are becoming more and more difficult to achieve yet we remain committed to aggressive positioning. Geographically, a national job order contract with a Fortune 500 company is creating environmental abatement opportunities across the United States. Positioning our company on these abatement jobs will allow demolition opportunities occur – operations are poised to meet these new prospects. We continue to aggressively market our “green” approach to demolition and have advanced new contacts visa via references.
Wednesday, February 10, 2010
Becher Court Apartment Milwaukee, WI
Champion Environmental Services, Inc. has been retained by the Milwaukee Housing Authority to facilitate the environmental remediation and demolition of the multistory Becher Court Apartments located in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. The project will be broken into two distinct phases.
In the first stage, all asbestos containing material will be properly removed. Additionally, CESI will facilitate the removal of all PCB ballast and mercury. After the environmental abatement, Champion Environmental Services, Inc. will defer final sampling/air clearances to the environmental consultant; the consultant acts as a third party quality control monitor – they confirm that we addressed all environmental issues pursuant to DNR, EPA, and OHSA guidelines.
Another environmental challenge also exists in contaminated soil that has been identified on the site. Approximately sixty tons of petroleum dirt will need to be excavated and properly disposed.
The building demolition poses some unique challenges given the height of the structure in relation to nearby – occupied structures. Champion Environmental Services, Inc. has developed a strategic approach which will ensure the safety of our workers and those in proximity of the site. Our unique approach to demolition will allow us to achieve a nearly 90% recycling rate on this project.
Below is a picture of the Becher Court Apartments
In the first stage, all asbestos containing material will be properly removed. Additionally, CESI will facilitate the removal of all PCB ballast and mercury. After the environmental abatement, Champion Environmental Services, Inc. will defer final sampling/air clearances to the environmental consultant; the consultant acts as a third party quality control monitor – they confirm that we addressed all environmental issues pursuant to DNR, EPA, and OHSA guidelines.
Another environmental challenge also exists in contaminated soil that has been identified on the site. Approximately sixty tons of petroleum dirt will need to be excavated and properly disposed.
The building demolition poses some unique challenges given the height of the structure in relation to nearby – occupied structures. Champion Environmental Services, Inc. has developed a strategic approach which will ensure the safety of our workers and those in proximity of the site. Our unique approach to demolition will allow us to achieve a nearly 90% recycling rate on this project.
Below is a picture of the Becher Court Apartments
Tuesday, February 9, 2010
Marquette University Work Rounding Down
Published in the “Daily Reporter” on 2/08/2010, Champion Environmental Services, Inc. is finishing up demolition work at Marquette University
Thursday, February 4, 2010
Video of Demolition At Marquette University
This video comes to us from John Krejci of the “Daily Reporter”.
Friday, January 29, 2010
Palatine, Illinois Asbestos Project
Champion Environmental Services, Inc. is preparing to mobilize in Palatine, Illinois for an asbestos abatement project at several shuttered commercial properties. Through a process known as Polarized Light Microscopy, lab tests revealed a variety of building materials that needed to be removed. The abatement and proper disposal will include floor tile, mastics, mirror glue, column fire proofing, and boiler stack insulation. The project is scheduled for completion by March of 2010.
Wednesday, January 27, 2010
Accelator Site Clearance and Demolition
A private, Fortune 50 client has retained Champion Environmental Services, Inc. to demolish and clear the site of an Accelator. An Accelator receives a source of raw water and through an aeration process, treats the water to a more manageable concentration. Accelators are an integral part of municipal and industrial wastewater treatment processes.
All effluents, launderers, agitators, impellers/rotors/hood-ties, associated rails and framing along with the concrete base will be removed. This project will employ a combination of selective demolition performed by skilled laborers along with the mobilization of heavy equipment.
All effluents, launderers, agitators, impellers/rotors/hood-ties, associated rails and framing along with the concrete base will be removed. This project will employ a combination of selective demolition performed by skilled laborers along with the mobilization of heavy equipment.
Strong First Quarter for Environmental Work
Champion was recently awarded several environmental projects in Illinois and Wisconsin. A shuttered hospital in DeKalb, Illinois will be given a clean bill of health after we remove extensive quantities of asbestos containing material. The parcel, developed in the late 60’s, reflects typical building practices which were considered prudent: The hallways and patient rooms contain contaminated floor tile and mastic throughout; carpeted office areas are held down by ACM mastic; patches of ductwork insulation throughout the second floor is “hot” and will need to be properly abated. Nearly 200,000 square feet of hospital will soon be under containment in preparation of this project.
On behalf of the Milwaukee Housing Authority, Champion Environmental Services, Inc. will be providing asbestos abatement and hazardous material removal services at an 11 story residence tower in preparation of demolition activities. ACM materials is just a portion of this contract as we are also responsible for removal of asbestos PCB bulbs/ballasts as well as mercury switches.
As part of a Job Order Contract agreement with nationwide retail chain JC Penney, Champion Environmental Services, Inc. will be abating ACM floor tile and mastic from a store in Peoria, Illinois.
On behalf of the Milwaukee Housing Authority, Champion Environmental Services, Inc. will be providing asbestos abatement and hazardous material removal services at an 11 story residence tower in preparation of demolition activities. ACM materials is just a portion of this contract as we are also responsible for removal of asbestos PCB bulbs/ballasts as well as mercury switches.
As part of a Job Order Contract agreement with nationwide retail chain JC Penney, Champion Environmental Services, Inc. will be abating ACM floor tile and mastic from a store in Peoria, Illinois.
Thursday, January 14, 2010
Huff Hall, University of Illinois
Champion Environmental Services, Inc. will begin work this month in Champaign, Illinois for the University of Illinois. Champion Environmental Services, Inc. will be responsible for performing extensive-selective demolition; the project will enable the university to proceed with a planned expansion of Huff Hall.
Home to the “Fighting Illini” gymnastics, wrestling, and volleyball programs, Huff Hall was originally constructed in 1924 and served a variety of functions over the years.
Our efforts will surround roof, ceiling, masonry, sr partitions, and concrete risers along with associated supporting steel, ramps, pads, and stairs.
Home to the “Fighting Illini” gymnastics, wrestling, and volleyball programs, Huff Hall was originally constructed in 1924 and served a variety of functions over the years.
Our efforts will surround roof, ceiling, masonry, sr partitions, and concrete risers along with associated supporting steel, ramps, pads, and stairs.
Glendale, Wisconsin Storage Tank Removal
Champion Environmental Services, Inc. mobilized a crew this morning in Glendale, Wisconsin to remove an above ground storage tank at a research and development water treatment facility.
The process will involve a combination of laborers employing the use of cutting torches along with a 315 CAT and shear attachment. The tank will be selectively deconstructed and cut into manageable sections for recycling.
The process will involve a combination of laborers employing the use of cutting torches along with a 315 CAT and shear attachment. The tank will be selectively deconstructed and cut into manageable sections for recycling.
Tuesday, January 5, 2010
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