Asarco smokestacks: Residents fear impact of stacks’ demolition

Asarco demolition road closures. (Illustrated by Nacho Garcia / El Paso Times)

As the demolition of the Asarco smokestacks approaches, residents of a nearby neighborhood said they are concerned about how the explosions that will bring the stacks down will affect their homes.

Explosives will bring down the 825- and 612-foot stacks simultaneously on the morning of April 13.

Residents of La Calavera, a small, isolated neighborhood near the Asarco site, said officials in charge of the demolition have not approached them to address their concerns.

"They don't care about us," a man said while cleaning his yard Tuesday.

A meeting with the residents was canceled last week after media cameras showed up. Some residents seem to be reluctant to speak to the media or to any stranger.

Another

One of the main concerns is the possible damage to the houses in the neighborhood by the explosions, said Ruben Escandon Sr. The houses are mostly adobe.

"They could cave in or crack more. Some of them are old," Escandon said.

Escandon, 74, has lived on San Marcos Drive since he was born, and his house already shows some signs of deterioration.

Read more:
Asarco smokestacks: Residents fear impact of stacks' demolition