INTRODUCTION
Total Wrecking & Environmental is a national leader in large-scale demolition, known for its focus on safety, efficiency, and integrity.
The Lakeland McIntosh Power Plant demolition was one of our most significant projects to date. Spanning multiple years, it involved dismantling three major boilers and associated structures.
The project achieved zero injuries and required navigating strict environmental regulations to protect local wildlife such as ospreys and eagles. Technical challenges demanded innovative approaches, including a specialized wrecking ball and carefully planned implosions to safely bring down towering structures.
PROJECT TIMELINE
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May 2022: Site preparation and initial assessments
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June 2022: Equipment mobilization and environmental protection setup
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Nov 2022: Superintendent Steve Schafner and General Superintendent John Spaich join site leadership
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Mar 2023: First boiler implosion completed
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Aug 2023: Second major implosion executed
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Feb 2024: Final implosion, including administrative buildings
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June 2024: Debris removal, cleanup, and site handover to the City of Lakeland
PROJECT BACKGROUND
The Lakeland McIntosh Power Plant in Florida was a landmark facility supplying electricity to more than 200,000 residents and businesses.
Total Wrecking’s scope included demolishing:
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Three 600-megawatt boilers
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Precipitators, scrubbers, ICRs, and transformers
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Multiple administrative and auxiliary buildings, some reaching 13 stories
The work also required safe handling of hazardous materials throughout the process.
Over two years, the project was completed with:
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Multiple controlled implosions
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Use of a 32,000-pound slingshot gravity pendulum (adapted from a previous project)
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High-reach demolition machinery for safe top-down dismantling
The successful outcome earned Total Wrecking a shortlist nomination in 2024 for the World Demolition Award (“Project Over $1,000,000”).
MAJOR CHALLENGES & SOLUTIONS
Worker Safety
Zero injuries were achieved through:
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Rigorous training on hazardous materials and heavy equipment
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Daily safety audits to identify risks
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PPE for all workers (helmets, gloves, harnesses)
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Frequent safety briefings and updates
Environmental Compliance & Wildlife Protection
Protecting wildlife was a central requirement.
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Monitoring bird activity to avoid nesting disruptions
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Coordination with agencies for osprey and eagle protection
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Equipment modifications to prevent nesting on tall machinery
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Even small animals received care—two kittens were safely rescued and adopted
Specialized Equipment & Techniques
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PC 1250 Hydraulic Excavator: Handled large-scale concrete and heavy lifting
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32,000-Pound Pendulum Wrecking Ball: Essential for breaking massive turbine pedestals
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High-Reach Demolition Machines: Allowed controlled dismantling of 13-story structures
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Controlled Implosions: Planned with surgical precision to avoid collateral damage
Coordination With City of Lakeland
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Power grid management: Worked around 23,000-volt active wires
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Traffic control: Police-assisted road closures for conveyor removals
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Community communication: Residents notified ahead of implosions
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Exclusion zones & viewing areas: Ensured safety while allowing public viewing
KEY SUBCONTRACTORS
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CDI (Controlled Demolition, Inc.) – Implosion expertise and execution
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Dive Teams – Sealed cooling tower water intakes to prevent contamination
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Abatement Contractors – Removed asbestos safely and in compliance
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Concrete Contractors – Prepared structures for implosions with precision saw-cutting
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Paving Contractors – Maintained site access and heavy machinery routes
COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT
- Implosion Raffle: Local residents entered for a chance to push the button on a major implosion, raising funds for charity
- Charity Donations: Additional community fundraising tied to implosion event
COMPLETION & OUTCOMES
The final phase ensured full compliance and client satisfaction:
- Documentation: Waste manifests, scrap tickets, and hazardous removal records compiled
- Site Inspection: Verified debris removal and safe site conditions
- Client Walkthrough: Final review and acceptance by Lakeland management
CONCLUSION
The Lakeland McIntosh Power Plant demolition showcased Total Wrecking’s ability to execute a multi-year, high-stakes project with precision and safety.
By combining innovative equipment like the 32,000-pound pendulum, meticulous planning, and strict safety measures, we delivered results that set a new standard in industrial demolition.
This project reinforced Total Wrecking & Environmental’s reputation as a trusted leader in large-scale, complex demolitions, committed to safety, environmental stewardship, and community partnership.