(PENROSE, Colo.) — The demolition of the Return to Nature Funeral Home where nearly 200 improperly stored bodies were discovered in October 2023 has not started on schedule due to “logistical issues,” according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).

Due to the biological and hazardous waste resulting from the improper storage of bodies, the Penrose location was deemed a public health hazard by the EPA, and it was initially set to be demolished in early January 2024. Poor weather conditions delayed the demolition, and the EPA then rescheduled the work for the final week in February.

In an update on Feb. 27, the EPA said the demolition had not started “due to pending logistical issues regarding landfill access.” The EPA said it is waiting with its partners in Fremont County and the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment (CDPHE) on a minor modification to the preferred landfill’s “Certificate of Designation.”

The EPA said the demolition cannot proceed with the demolition until this vital agreement is in place.

“EPA understands the stress and impatience among those in the community seeking closure on this tragedy,” the EPA said in its update. “We recognize the importance of transparency and will continue to keep the public informed about next steps and new timeframes.”

The EPA said there is no current health risk to the public, due to the safety measures in place for demolition, transport, and disposal.