Rite Environmental, Inc. has completed its renovation of the former Marquart facility located at 110 Dunham Place. The sprawling complex totals over 14 acres across several city blocks near the Cedar River. The long-time concrete products manufacturer stopped production in the mid-2010s when its owner consolidated operations elsewhere in the community. Although the site included several buildings, featured adequate room for future expansion, and maintained close proximity to U.S. Highway 63 and US Highway 218, it remained vacant. Officials suspected potential contamination concerns dissuaded investors. EPA Brownfields Program funds allowed the City of Waterloo to assist a prospective purchaser in navigating the process.
Assessment Grant funds helped Rite Environmental, Inc. conduct its due diligence prior to taking title. Completing a Phase I Environmental Site Assessment (ESA) provided the commercial garbage and recycling hauling business with important liability protections. A subsequent Phase II ESA designed to get a better understanding of the existing environmental conditions permitted Iowa Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) to determine the proposed re-use was appropriate.
The company has invested nearly $200,000 into the property since acquiring it in 2019. Office upgrades include installing new LED lighting, carpet, security systems, updated electrical systems, and IT infrastructure. Shop renovations involve a new roof, remodeled bathroom, LED lights, floor drains, garage door openers, and plumbing air lines for shop tools. Exterior enhancements include landscaping, adding signage, and new lighting. Rite Environmental has added 8 new employees during the time period. Visit https://riteenvironmental.com/ for more details.
Former Marquart Concrete Products located at 110 Dunham Place.
Rite Environmental, Inc.’s facility following its upgrades.
