Hazmat-suit clad workers and dump trucks began the cleanup of the six-month old fire debris cleanup in downtown Arcata today.

It’ll take 8-10 weeks to complete, a spokesman for Environmental Remedies, the hazardous materials abatement company the three affected property owners hired, told the Outpost recently. 

Though the site is contaminated with various heavy metals and noxious chemicals, the cleanup crews are taking precautions to keep nearby residents and business safe, the spokesman said. They’ll be misting the debris to keep dust from floating around.

Mayfield Environmental Solutions, the subcontractor tasked with removing much of the noxious material, put up a flyer on nearby residences and businesses asking them to keep their windows closed and avoid the area, “for their own safety.” A company spokesman told the Outpost today that they didn’t expect any harmful dust to actually travel anywhere they didn’t want it to go. They asked out of an abundance of caution, he said, to “maximize health precautions.” They’ve been testing the site for lead and asbestos frequently.

“Local residents should know that our team’s priority is public safety, environmental protection and clear communication throughout the cleanup,” the Environmental Remedies spokesman wrote. “Residents can expect controlled work zones, air quality monitoring and updates as we move through each phase of the project. We’ll be working closely with the City of Arcata, state agencies, and environmental regulators to make sure every step of the cleanup meets strict safety standards. Our goal is simple: remove the debris safely, protect the community, and help the city move forward as quickly as possible.”