The process of preparing Tacoma’s former WestRock paper mill for sale is set to be a lengthy and intricate endeavor, involving significant efforts in dismantling and cleanup. This facility, located at 801 Portland Ave. E., was officially closed in August 2023. Since then, demolition documents submitted to the city have revealed various challenges, including the presence of asbestos-treated areas and deteriorating wood-framed fuel storage bins, which require careful handling during the decommissioning process.
The nearly 60-acre property is owned by an LLC associated with Smurfit WestRock. In July 2024, WestRock completed a merger with Smurfit Kappa, a company based in Dublin specializing in folding paperboard box manufacturing. Prior to finalizing the merger, WestRock announced the closure of the Tacoma mill and other sites as part of ongoing restructuring and consolidation efforts. In April 2024, the company also notified the state of Oregon about the planned closure of its corrugated plant in Portland.
Efforts to prepare the Tacoma site for sale are ongoing, with a permit application having been submitted in March 2024 for the demolition of portions of the mill. The work involves demolishing timber-framed hog fuel bins to facilitate access to a precipitator, as well as removing asbestos-containing parts of the structure deemed unsafe for manual abatement by a structural engineer. The total cost of the project is estimated at $300,000.
According to Chris Kitchen, inspection manager with the Puget Sound Clean Air Agency, a variance was obtained to mechanically remove asbestos using wet methods. The complexity of the task is underscored by the hazardous conditions of the site, which require the hiring of a third-party industrial hygienist to conduct air sampling throughout the demolition process. If unacceptable pollution levels are detected, adjustments to the work plan will be necessary to ensure safety.
Historical operations at the mill have left their mark, with the site now requiring extensive cleanup under the Model Toxics Control Act, driven by potential environmental contamination risks. The state Department of Ecology is negotiating with potentially liable parties to complete a remedial investigation and draft a cleanup action plan, although an agreed order is yet to be finalized.
As the cleanup process gradually unfolds, local environmental organizations, such as Communities for a Healthy Bay, remain vigilant, advocating for a comprehensive and protective approach to restoring the site. The potential future uses of the property continue to attract interest from various industries, each under scrutiny for their environmental impact and commitment to sustainability.
The Evolving Landscape
The closure and decommissioning of the WestRock Tacoma mill present significant implications for the local environment and community. The extensive cleanup efforts required at the site highlight the potential risks associated with historical industrial activities and the need for diligent environmental stewardship. As the process unfolds, the surrounding community can expect increased oversight from environmental agencies and organizations aimed at ensuring a safe and comprehensive remediation plan.
The economic landscape of Tacoma may also experience shifts as a result of the site’s closure and eventual redevelopment. With the departure of a longstanding industrial presence, there exists the opportunity for new businesses to occupy the space, potentially driving economic activity. However, concerns regarding environmental sustainability and the responsible use of the site remain paramount. Any future development will be closely monitored to ensure adherence to environmental standards and the implementation of modern technologies to mitigate pollution.
For residents, the situation underscores the importance of staying informed about local environmental issues and participating in public comment periods to ensure their voices are heard in shaping the future of their community. As Tacoma navigates this transition, the potential for revitalization and sustainable growth offers a hopeful prospect for the city’s economic and environmental future.