The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has announced a public comment period for a proposed settlement with the Illinois Department of Natural Resources (DNR). This agreement pertains to the property at 1800 Channahon Road in Joliet, Illinois, which is designated for use in the Brandon Road Interbasin Project. A public meeting will take place on January 7, 2025, and the comment period will conclude on January 8, 2025.
The Brandon Road Interbasin Project is an initiative by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers valued at $1.15 billion. Its aim is to install barriers at the Brandon Road Lock and Dam to prevent invasive carp from entering the Great Lakes. The land parcels that Illinois DNR plans to acquire for this project may be contaminated. Under the proposed settlement, Illinois DNR will investigate and clean up the 2.32-acre site under EPA and Illinois EPA oversight. In return for fulfilling these requirements, Illinois DNR will receive liability protections from the United States under both the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act and the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act for any existing contamination or work conducted at the site.
The EPA's public meeting details are as follows:
- Date: Tuesday, January 7
- Location: Joliet Public Library, McGuire Room (first floor), 150 N. Ottawa St., Joliet, Ill.
- Time: 5:30 – 7 p.m., with a presentation starting at 6 p.m.
The EPA invites public comments until January 8 and will review all submissions. The agency may modify or withdraw its consent to the proposed settlement if new facts or considerations suggest that it is inappropriate, improper, or inadequate. Further information about the proposed settlement and how to submit comments can be found on their regulations website.