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