Some residents would prefer that the contaminated soil at the site be removed and cleaned, rather than capped. They question why EPA chose capping over soil remediation. Based on recent testing results, contaminants in the soil are at unsafe levels throughout the site. EPA considers capping the area to be the most effective way to respond to the wide-spread contamination. Because contaminated soils are not confined to manageable areas, it is not effective to excavate and clean specific portions of soil.
Many residents are concerned about the quality of the cap.
EPA will ensure that the site is capped with the safest, most effective materials. Some residents asked how the type of cap built and the structures placed on top would impact later clean-up actions if capping turns out to be an interim action. The type of cap and any structure built on top of the cap will not have a major impact on future clean-up actions. Any type of cap can be removed from the site. Removal of buildings would be more complicated, but can be done.