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Only a pile of rubble is left where Thermo's silo once stood/ photo by Taylor Nye -
Construction equipment works one Zone B1's other structures/ photo by Taylor Nye
Maxwell: property a 'game changer'
Reclamation work is ongoing at the former Thermo mine site, as Luminant begins taking down once-used structures such as a coal silo and other structures in an area called Zone B1.
On April 22, Luminant demolished the coal silo, which had stood on-site since its development as a Lignite mining operation in 1978, according to historical documents.
“I miss looking out the back of the house and seeing it all lit up and wondering what dad was up to over there,” said citizen Jordan Nelson, whose father worked at the mining operation.
The destruction of the silo marks a very visible step towards opening Zone B1, which comes “off bond” for the city to use as early as 2022, according to city data. Zone B1 also contains railroad tracks, machine sheds and other buildings.
“The city recognizes that Luminant has a continuing obligation to and they’re doing exactly what they said we would do,” said city manager Marc Maxwell. “We’ll see even more of this in the future.”
If all proceeds smoothly with demolition of additional storage buildings, cleaning coal dust and additional activities, the city can expect to take over the land in as little as two years, Maxwell said.
Still, the city has a process of regulatory approvals ahead with the Railroad Commission once Luminant finishes their work on Zone B1.
“That silo has been part of the local skyline so long,” said citizen Carrol Meeks. “I can't remember a time it wasn't there.”
“I said from the beginning this is a game changing for the city and with each passing day I believe it even more,” Maxwell stated.