Old Pulp Mill Demolition

Multi-year, multidisciplinary project

This mill in Cloquet, MN constructed a modern pulp mill in the late 1990s. The original pulp mill consisted of numerous buildings dating from the early 1900s to the mid 1970s.  Removal of portions of the abandoned pulp mill began in 2005. By 2017, the removal of all the isolated facilities had been completed, leaving a zone of 16 buildings surrounded on three sides by buildings that were to remain to support operations. LHB provided structural and architectural detailing for the isolation of the demolition zone. Prior to demolition work, isolation walls up to three stories in height were constructed within the mill.

Extensive utilities were required to be rerouted to support the demolition, including fire-water, process chemical, and numerous gravity and pressure process sewers.

Structural engineering work included new access/egress means around the perimeter of the demolition, roofing systems for newly exposed surfaces, and support of remaining process piping. Mechanical engineering support included design of new process piping and HVAC improvements. Civil engineering support included rerouting of sewers and final site grading and drainage. The project was completed on time and within budget.