Investigation continues into cause of Lethbridge Hotel fire
By Delon Shurtz - Lethbridge Herald on March 4, 2023.
LETHBRIDGE HERALDdshurtz@lethbridgeherald.com While authorities still don’t know what caused the fire that destroyed the Lethbridge Hotel last week, demolition of the building and testing of the debris is expected proceed in the coming days.“The cause of the fire is still under investigation,” fire prevention officer Chad Mellafont confirmed Friday during a news conference at City Hall. “At this point, weather permitting, we’re moving onto the next phase of the operations to support that investigation.”
Beginning Monday and for the following six to nine days crews will continue to demolish the building, separate materials and conduct onsite testing.
Initial testing has already uncovered asbestos, which will be professionally removed and taken to the landfill.
“We’re working closely with Occupational Health and Safety, as well as Alberta Environment, to ensure that we’re handling and abating that asbestos properly.”
The weather, particularly southern Alberta’s infamous west wind, may determine the speed at which demolition and separation can safely proceed. And while heavy machinery will be used to haul debris from the site, Mellafont said the public’s safety is priority.
“Businesses are open and customers are welcome to visit the downtown area and it’s safe for the public to be down there.”
Should any safety concerns arise, the public and businesses will be notified.
Mellafont adds there may be some disruptions during the work, but the city will inform businesses in the area beforehand and explain the steps that will be taken next.
On Thursday, crews began fencing off the demolition site, but, recognizing that surrounding businesses have been significantly impacted by fire and subsequent demolition, crews will do their best to reopen roads as quickly as possible and help restore regular parking and foot traffic in the area.
Anyone with questions or concerns can call Lethbridge 311 by telephone or through online chat from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday-Friday.
While an investigation into the Jan. 31 fire that destroyed Bow on Tong building only a block away also continues, demolition of that historical building has already been completed. Follow @DShurtzHerald on Twitter 4
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