News Releases - 2000

Additional Sampling Around Former Mobile & Ohio Railyard Site in Murphysboro Confirms No Immediate Health Risk

Springfield -- Additional soil samples and indoor wipe samples taken in February indicate no immediate health threat from lead or dioxin contamination, the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency and the Illinois Department of Public Health announced today.

The agencies concluded that no health hazards exist for residential areas sampled on 17^th & 19^th Streets and that wipe samples taken from inside homes showed little or no dioxins and exposure will not pose a health hazard.

“We are relieved this additional sampling has not shown a short-term health risk and we are now moving forward on a cleanup plan to address the long-term health risk potential,” said Illinois EPA Director Tom Skinner.

More extensive soil sampling was done in the area south of Gartside Street and locations within the Meadows of Murphy subdivision. The highest concentrations of the additional samples for both lead and dioxin were below the highest levels of samples taken in the vicinity in November 1999.

However, because of concern over a potential long-term exposure health risk from high lead concentrations, Illinois EPA is requesting assistance from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency to conduct remediation of property in the subdivision.

In addition, the three areas enclosed by chain-link fence under seal orders issued by EPA Director Tom Skinner, also need to be remediated.

Illinois EPA and the Illinois Department of Public Health will be consulting with USEPA on appropriate cleanup measures to protect human health and the environment.

Illinois EPA expects to continue the investigation of surrounding businesses and industries which will require additional soil sampling to be conducted in the non-residential area between 17^th & 19^th Streets south and southwest of the subidivision. The Agency anticipates this investigation will begin in late spring or early summer.

The Illinois Department of Public Health’s previous advice on reducing exposure to contaminated soil remains unchanged, particularly not letting children play or dig in contaminated soil. Other precautions include good personal hygiene habits, such as frequently washing childrens’ hands and face, toys and garden vegetables. Also, avoid tracking soil inside and vacuum carpeting and rugs frequently.

The Illinois EPA Office of Community Relations will work closely with impacted residents as remediation plans are developed.

Related Information

• News Release - Illinois EPA Will Conduct Additional Sampling in Murphysboro.