Michael S. Regan, EPA Administrator | https://en.wikipedia.org/
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has announced the removal of the Lipari Landfill site from the Superfund National Priorities List. The announcement was made at an event in Betty Park, Pitman, N.J., where EPA Regional Administrator Lisa F. Garcia and U.S. Representative Donald Norcross were joined by state and local leaders to celebrate the site's cleanup and redevelopment.
"The transformation of the Lipari Landfill site showcases the immensely positive impact the Superfund program can have in communities," said EPA Regional Administrator Lisa F. Garcia. "For decades, the Lipari Landfill has been a household name in South Jersey, looming over the community of Pitman. Today, this once contaminated area is now a thriving community asset, setting a benchmark for other projects nationwide."
Rick Kessler, Senior Advisor in EPA’s Office of Land and Emergency Management, emphasized the significance of this achievement: "The story of the Lipari Landfill and its cleanup is so intertwined with the story of Superfund, which is why it’s so gratifying to be here to close the door on a long, difficult, but ultimately successful journey."
U.S. Senator George Helmy highlighted local impacts: "New Jerseyans in Mantua Township and the Borough of Pitman can finally breathe easy today knowing work to address dangerous levels of pollution at the Lipari Landfill is now successfully complete."
"Today marks an important day for all of New Jersey as we celebrate removing the Lipari Landfill Superfund site from the EPA's National Priorities List," said U.S. Representative Donald Norcross.
New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy praised efforts that led to this milestone: "I applaud the EPA for their commitment to helping us build a cleaner and safer Garden State."
Shawn M. LaTourette, Commissioner of New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP), also reflected on this achievement: "It is with the deepest sense of pride and accomplishment that we stand here today to celebrate the deletion of what was once considered the nation’s most hazardous toxic waste site from the Superfund list."
The Lipari Landfill was one of America’s most contaminated sites due to waste accepted between 1958 and 1971. Cleanup efforts involved containing contaminants, treating groundwater, and removing harmful vapors from soil.
Revitalization efforts have transformed Alcyon Lake and surrounding parks into recreational spaces offering activities like baseball, soccer, walking trails, fishing, and boating. These improvements have brought economic benefits estimated at $101,000 annually in direct use value.
The Superfund program addresses some of America's most polluted lands. Removal from its National Priorities List indicates that a site no longer poses significant risks to human health or environment.
For more information about these developments or to access detailed documents about Lipari Landfill's cleanup process, visit EPA Region 2's website or their social media pages.
