The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has finalized its cleanup plan for the 80-120 Lister Ave. portion of the Diamond Alkali Superfund Site in Newark, New Jersey. This plan aims to address contamination issues related to soil, debris, and groundwater left by past activities at the site. The EPA released a proposed plan for public comment in September 2024 and incorporated feedback before reaching a final decision.
The complexity of the site led the EPA to divide it into four phases called Operable Units (OUs). The current Record of Decision focuses on OU1, which includes a former pesticide and herbicide manufacturing facility that contributed to pollution in the surrounding area, including the Lower Passaic River and Newark Bay.
“The contamination stemming from the Lister Avenue facility has impacted Newark for decades, and this cleanup plan marks a significant milestone in addressing it,” stated Regional Administrator Lisa F. Garcia. “With this decision, EPA is reinforcing our commitment to protecting Newark’s communities and environment by advancing long-term solutions that ensure a safer and healthier future.”
The finalized cleanup strategy involves continuing existing remedies with enhancements such as reinstalling seven groundwater wells and pumps, upgrading the groundwater treatment system, and repairing any necessary components of the cap covering contaminated materials. This approach builds on previous efforts while avoiding short-term risks associated with more invasive methods like excavation.
In light of climate change concerns, EPA confirmed that earlier cleanups were designed to withstand flood and storm impacts. A vulnerability assessment concluded that future plans will effectively address rising temperatures, sea level rise, extreme weather events, and heavy precipitation risks. Additionally, plans include establishing a temporary groundwater treatment system if needed during storm damage.
For river investigations and cleanup efforts, EPA divided the Lower Passaic River's 17-mile stretch into two units: lower 8.3 miles and upper 9 miles. Cleanup decisions were made for these sections in 2016 and 2021 respectively. Occidental Chemical Corporation prepared an engineering design for cleaning up the lower section approved by EPA in 2024; work on designing solutions for the upper section began in 2023.
A portion of Newark Bay within this site is under investigation by Occidental Chemical Corporation as studies continue evaluating potential cleanup options.
Further details about this project can be found on Diamond Alkali Superfund site's webpage or through following updates from EPA Region 2 across various social media platforms.
