The deconstruction and demolition of the massive Fort Ord complex in California is moving forward, though some potential barriers to deconstruction have arisen.
The Fort Ord Reuse Authority (FORA) is managing redevelopment of the decommissioned military property, on which some 2,000 buildings sit on a 45-square-mile site in northern California.
FORA is attempting to develop the site in a sustainable mode stressing reuse of buildings or materials, with recycling considered the next best option. FORA recycling manager Stan Cook says five years of inventory and research have let the agency reach several conclusions:
Only about 5% of the buildings are likely to be re-used in place.
Another 5% may be preserved and moved.
Five buildings have been deconstructed, but the presence of wood covered in lead-based paint could limit the amount of future deconstruction.
The 800 to 900 concrete buildings at the site are likely to be razed, crushed and recycled, with a 90% recycling rate possible.
According to Bill Turley of the Construction Materials Recycling Association (CMRA), Lisle, Ill., deconstruction advocates are disappointed that more wood (much of it Douglas fir) could not be recovered for reuse.
But Cook’s research showed that much of the wood has a significant amount of lead on the surface, with up to one-third of the thickness of some boards needing to be removed to make the boards reusable. Most contractors contacted have said the thick planing of such boards would not be economically feasible, although one contractor remains optimistic that 90% of the wood can be recovered in this fashion.
FORA is now seeking further grant money and capital to continue sustainability projects as it prepares to sell the Fort Ord land, which it is estimated will fetch from $70 million to $100 million.