Portland hires Staton Companies to demolish fire-damaged Centennial Mills by August 14

The City of Portland has hired Eugene-based Staton Companies to demolish the fire-damaged Centennial Mills building in the Pearl District, with work required to start no later than August 14. Engineers cite active structural deterioration, including widening cracks and leaning toward the rail corridor, requiring specialized planning before crews proceed. Options discussed include remote-controlled aerial demolition machines or ultra-high-reach equipment, with water spraying planned to control hazardous material exposure. Investigators believe human remains may be inside, and Portland Fire and Rescue expects the demolition to aid their ongoing investigation.