Late last week, the Environmental Protection Agency published data results after evaluating soil samples from residential areas close to LaSalle Park for lead and arsenic. The EPA release stated that there is “no immediate risk from exposure to the soils in the sampled areas, and no immediate clean-up is needed.”
Due to concerns about historic contamination, the EPA screened samples taken in October 2017 and compared them to the EPA’s Removal Management Levels for lead and arsenic. The lead and arsenic results from surface soil samples were all below the EPA’s screening levels, indicating that no immediate risk-based response action or clean-up is needed.
“We are relieved to hear these results from EPA after a very thorough testing process,” said Mayor Pete Buttigieg. “These findings are very important for our community as we continue to work with the EPA to ensure the health and safety of this area.”
“This is very good news for the neighborhood,” said Venues Parks & Arts Director Aaron Perri. “These findings are reassuring as we make major upgrades to the Charles Black Center and LaSalle Park for all to enjoy. We have big plans for this area, and this will help us get there.”
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