PORTAGE | The Board of Works on Monday awarded a new contract for the asbestos removal at the former Dollar General store.

The new contract will save the city some $20,000 and move forward the demolition of the building on Central Avenue.

Interstate Environmental Services of Valparaiso was the lowest of three bidders on the project. They received the contract for $7,750.

Last year the board awarded a contract to Angel Asbestos of Glenwood, Ill. for $29,900. That company withdrew its contract with the city late last year leaving officials seeking another contractor to complete the work.

Director of Public Works Craig Hendrix said the contract for Interstate Environmental was lower because there was less work to be done. Hendrix anticipated the company would be able to complete the job within three days and that demolition of the building by G.E. Marshall of Valparaiso should begin next week.

The building was purchased by the city. It is located in the city's downtown redevelopment area.