EPA begins phase two of BoRit Superfund cleanup project

Oct 13, 2009

Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) representatives have been working on plans for phase two of cleanup at the BoRit Superfund asbestos site in Pennsylvania. Phase one actions involved Wissahicon Creek, and phase two focuses on stabilizing the stream banks of Rose Valley Creek.

The BoRit site was used for disposal of asbestos-containing materials until the late 1980s. The EPA added it to the Superfund National Priorities list this past April, allowing the agency to investigate long-term solutions for the cleanup.

Phase two will involve installing a cement base made of concrete blocks and stainless steel cables to prevent erosion as work crews reshape the stream banks. Concrete cable has been successfully used by the Army Corps of Engineers in high velocity waters for long periods of time. Pumping was scheduled to begin in mid-September, with reshaping of the stream banks expected by the end of the month. The end result should be a widening of the stream by an average of 16 feet. The plans should efficiently prevent the spread of asbestos fibers and pose little threat to the environment.

For the full story, go to The Reporter.

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