Redevelopment, revitalization workshop

The public is invited to a free brownfields workshop co-hosted by Thermopolis-Hot Springs County Economic Development Company (EDC), the Wyoming Department of Environmental Quality and Technical Assistance to Brownfields (TAB) program at Kansas State University.

A “brownfield” is a term used to describe land that was previously used for industrial or some commercial purposes.

Amanda Moeller, the CEO for the EDC, said the workshop would be done in two half-days — Sept. 13 from 12:30-5 p.m. and Sept. 14 from 8 a.m.-12 p.m., at Hot Springs County Museum. This two-day approach, she said, will help to accommodate any travelers who want to attend. Over 30 people have already registered.

Among the topics of discussion during the workshop will be buildings that have asbestos in them. While asbestos, once commonly used in construction due to its affordability, insulation and resistance to fire, is not harmful unless it is disturbed, the material must be removed before any renovations.

Other topics will include: revitalization of brownfields, regional, state and federal resources, local success stories, proposals and grant writing. Moeller said the workshop is not just for people who have buildings downtown and elsewhere, which might have hazardous materials, but also for those who are looking to renovate — not just how to do it, but also how to get funding for it.

There will be local presenters, as well as personnel from across the state and from Kansas State University, University of Wyoming, Wyoming Business Council and State of Wyoming. A panel discussion is scheduled for the end of the first day, as well as an optional tour of the Klink Block Building. The subject material, Moeller said, is applicable to several buildings around town.

Though the expert advice provided through the workshop is free, people must register by Sept. 9 to participate. Registration can be done at http://www.ksutab.org/education/workshops.