Zeigler begins work to address hazards at former lumberyard site

FOX23 News at 9 p.m

ZEIGLER, Ill. (KBSI) — The City of Zeigler says work is underway to address safety hazards at the former lumberyard property on the Circle following a recent structural collapse.

City officials said a licensed structural engineer was hired to evaluate the site after the collapse. The assessment identified portions of the remaining structure as posing an immediate risk to public safety.

Before work began, the city completed required asbestos testing in accordance with state and federal regulations. Officials have since hired a qualified contractor to stabilize and remove the most hazardous sections of the structure. The work is ongoing.

“The safety of our residents, visitors and first responders remain the city’s highest priority,” Mayor Dennis Mitchell said in a statement.

The city also announced it has initiated legal action to address the remaining portions of the property that were not considered an immediate hazard but still require remediation. Those proceedings are ongoing as officials work toward a permanent solution for the site.

City officials said they will continue to provide updates as the project progresses.