New closure manager outlines demolition-contract timeline, readiness reviews

Scott Traxler, newly introduced as the site’s closure/demolition manager, told the Citizens Advisory Commission on Dec. 10 that acquisition activity for demolition work is nearing a decision and that the team has established a formal readiness-review process.

"We should be completing our technical evaluation by the close of the week, and we are hoping to...make the award, demolition subcontract announcement either in the middle of this week or early next week," Traxler said, describing near-term procurement milestones. He warned that mobilization (the contractor coming on-site for pre-work) is distinct from the actual start of demolition and projected mobilization in the late January–mid-February window.

Traxler described a readiness-review board he co-chairs that relies on 28 affidavits and performance objectives; responsible managers must demonstrate readiness and close any findings before permission to proceed is given. He also summarized work to resolve waste-management noncompliance items with state regulators and thanked CDPHE staff for their collaboration.

Next steps: technical evaluations, readiness-review findings and permit approvals will determine the demolition contractor’s exact start date; Traxler said the team will report progress to the CAC as milestones are reached.