New cleanup projects on the National Priorities List for cleaning contaminated sites can begin, thanks to the second wave of approximately $1 billion in funding from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.
The funding will help begin cleanups at 22 Superfund sites, as well as speeding up work at more than 100 ongoing cleanup projects, according to a Feb. 10 news release. Projects include the Hidden Lane Superfund site in Sterling, Va.
“This funding brings communities that much closer to being rid of legacy contamination that’s been hindering recreational access, economic redevelopment and ultimately – the peace of mind that comes with knowing one’s air, land and water are safe,” EPA Mid-Atlantic Regional Administrator Adam Ortiz said in the release. “EPA is steadfast in its efforts towards making that peace of mind a reality for all Virginians, regardless of the shortsightedness of industries past, while transforming contaminated properties and creating jobs in overburdened communities.”
Hidden Lane Landfill was a 25-acre disposal facility that began accepting solid wastes, such as appliances, paper, cardboard and construction and demolition waste, in 1971, the release reported. In February 2022, EPA announced the cleanup for the Hidden Lane site, including landfill cap repair and maintenance with land use controls, excavation with off-site disposal of principal threat source material and bioremediation of the groundwater.
The Superfund cleanups will help transform and repurpose contaminated sites into residences, retail and office space, warehouses, solar power generation and more, the release reported.
This second wave of funding is from $3.5 billion allocated for Superfund cleanup work in the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, according to the release.
Of the 22 sites in this round of funding, 60% are in communities with the potential for environmental justice concerns, the release reported. The EPA aims to continue building momentum toward ensuring communities near contaminated sites finally get the investments and protections they deserve.
