News on Iowa City Landfill Fire ‘Not Good’

A city official says the damage from the Iowa City landfill fire is worse than expected.

Project engineer Dan Scott told The Gazette that the assessment is continuing, but “it’s not good news.”

He estimated the total damage costs at $5 million.

Crews on Wednesday used a remote-controlled camera to inspect underground piping. Scott says at least one 600-foot pipe will likely need to be replaced rather than repaired.

He says it’s still not clear whether the city insurance policy will cover any of the damage.

The fire began May 26 on roughly 7 1/2 acres, primarily in an unused portion. The fire spread to a layer of shredded tires used for drainage. The fire cause hasn’t been determined.