Why was K-25 demolished at Oakridge instead of kept as a historic building?

The mammoth building, constructed in about 18 months during World War II, was the first building to enrich uranium. It operated until the mid-1960s then sat dormant for the next 40 years.

When the decision was made to turn ETTP into a modern industrial park it was determined that most of K-25 would be torn down. But since it was recognized as being a historically significant structure, a memorandum of agreement was signed to preserve the so-called North Tower, the section that connected the two 'legs' of the U-shaped building.

- Oak Ridge Site Specific Advisory Board-