FREDERICK, Md. (AP) -- Alcoa Inc. says it will dismantle the Eastalco Works aluminum smelting complex near Frederick that ceased production in 2005.
The Pittsburgh-based company says it has no plans for the 2,000-acre property about five miles south of Frederick. A spokesman says the ground will be tested for hazardous materials and chemicals.
More than 600 workers were laid off when Alcoa idled the plant in December 2005, citing high electricity costs.
Some local lawmakers have suggested offering the site for a federal diplomatic security training center that has met resistance at a proposed location in Queen Anne's County.
A spokesman says the State Department hasn't ruled out the Eastalco site or any other location within 2½ hours of Washington if its first choice falls through.
