News Releases - 2003

Cleanup at Waverly Grain Elevator Complete

Springfield, Ill. -- The removal of scrap metal and asbestos containing materials from the remains of the former Waverly Grain Elevator has been completed, Illinois Environmental Protection Agency Director Renee Cipriano announced today.

The Agency's contractor, Bodine Environmental Services, transported 30 truckloads, or about 600 cubic yards, of asbestos containing material from the elevator to a landfill. In addition, all scrap metal was removed, including the metal drying bin. The Illinois EPA has conducted a final inspection and documented that the contractor has completed all necessary work. The fencing and signage restricting access have also been removed.

"I appreciate the cooperation of the citizens and local officials in Waverly in working with Illinois EPA to address the potential public health issues at this site," said Director Cipriano.

The metal and asbestos were deposited across the elevator property and onto nearby residential properties during a fire in early September.

The Illinois EPA then investigated the site in response to requests from the community and citizen complaints. When the Agency determined that some of the debris contained asbestos, the area of concern was restricted to the public and cleanup was initiated. As part of the investigation, samples were collected from the adjacent residential properties. The sample results detected no asbestos.

Throughout the cleanup, air monitoring was conducted to ensure public safety. A property owner has yet to be definitely identified. However, a survey of the property will be scheduled in the near future to help determine ownership.

The Illinois EPA spent approximately $93,000 of state funds to complete this removal and will pursue cost recovery through the Illinois Attorney General's Office against any responsible owners of the elevator property.