GWM-demo-022614-PPT_webDeconstruction specialists Rhine Demolition of Seattle received a green light in December 2013 to begin deconstruction of the Great Western Malting building 1895 (also known as the Drum House) located at the port’s Terminal 2. Removal of the nearly 100 foot tall structure is a key part of the port’s West Vancouver Freight Access project and is necessary in order to make room for trains entering the port via a new south rail entrance.

Specialized long-reach equipment removed the upper portions of the drum house, and adjacent structures required temporary protection from debris created during the work. Careful sequencing and precise positioning was necessary for equipment with nibbler attachments that “munched” both concrete, steel wall and slab sections into smaller pieces; and water was used to control dust. The project is scheduled for completion in July 2014.

Building 1895 is one of three separate buildings to be demolished in preparation for the new rail line. Other buildings include an additional silo structure (known as the 30-40-50 silos) and a port warehouse located at Terminal 3.

Great Western Malting and the Port of Vancouver have a long history together, and continue to work cooperatively for the benefit of each. The company was founded in 1934 shortly after the repeal of Prohibition by a group of businessmen, most of whom were brewery owners. Still in operation at the port after more than 75 years, Great Western Malting is the oldest malting company in the western United States and one of the port’s longest standing tenants.