EPA completes cleanup of former hospital site in Colorado
EPA addressed asbestos-containing material and demolition debris in Walsenburg
DENVER – Today, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced the completion of a response action in Walsenburg, Colorado, to clean up and properly dispose of asbestos-containing material (ACM) and fire-damaged debris from a former hospital site and abandoned residence. The cleanup removed 1,520 cubic yards of ACM and contaminated debris, reducing the risk of asbestos fibers being released into the environment and helping prepare the site for future redevelopment.
“Cleaning up contaminated properties is essential to protecting human health and the environment, and it plays a critical role in community revitalization," said EPA Regional Administrator Cyrus Western. "By removing asbestos and debris from this site, EPA is reducing risks today and helping create a safer, stronger future for Walsenburg."
Following an October 2023 fire at the former hospital, Huerfano County Economic Development used an EPA Brownfields assessment grant to complete environmental site assessments. In July 2026, at the request of Huerfano County and Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment (CDPHE), EPA initiated an emergency response removal at the former Lamme Hospital site.
"Huerfano County is grateful to the US EPA for their assistance cleaning up the old Lamme Hospital,” said Huerfano County Board Chair Karl Sporleder. “This effort has removed hazardous materials from the property and marks an important step toward transforming this corner into a safer, more vibrant space for the community and downtown businesses.”
EPA mobilized to the site on September 17, and the response was completed on October 10. During the response EPA conducted particulate and asbestos air monitoring to ensure asbestos fibers did not migrate off site and ACM debris was transported for disposal to a permitted landfill in Pueblo.
By removing ACM and contaminated debris from the site, the cleanup reduced the potential for asbestos fibers to become airborne and protected the community from the health risks associated with asbestos exposure.
EPA and CDPHE remain available to respond to questions and will coordinate with Huerfano County if needed. For more information, please visit EPA's Old Hospital Asbestos webpage.
Learn more about EPA’s emergency response program.