View & Comment on Environmental Cleanup of Federal Building

The City of Missoula and Missoula County hired a consultant to inventory hazardous materials in the former Federal building. The study found asbestos and lead-based paint. Cleanup will cost about $500,000. Both the report and the cleanup are fully funded by grants from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).

The report, an Analysis of Brownfields Cleanup Alternatives, is available for review online. The County and City invite public comment on the proposed cleanup alternatives. The public can review, ask questions, and comment on the report here. The comment period is open until November 6.

The former Federal building is vacant except for the Post Office. Asbestos and lead-based paint cleanup will be easier and less expensive while the building is vacant. The report recommends full asbestos abatement and moderate lead mitigation. Cleanup will begin this winter. After cleanup, the City and County will be able to start rehabilitating the historic building.