Residents demand action against Rocky Flats contamination risks

During a recent government meeting, community members voiced serious concerns regarding the Rocky Flats site, a former nuclear weapons production facility now designated as an EPA Superfund site. The discussions highlighted the potential health risks associated with the site, particularly in relation to a proposed Greenway project that some residents fear could exacerbate contamination issues.

The executive director of the Environmental Information Network, who spoke on behalf of herself and her sister, urged officials to withdraw from the Greenway project, citing significant liability risks. She emphasized the latency periods for exposure to hazardous materials from Rocky Flats, warning that increased cancer rates and immune system issues could arise as a result of public access to the area. She called for more rigorous air monitoring, suggesting that disturbances in the area could resuspend plutonium particles, which pose a long-term health threat.

Another speaker, Susan Hurst, echoed these concerns, stressing the dangers of airborne plutonium particles that can travel long distances. She referenced Denver's alarming prostate cancer rates and insisted that constant monitoring is essential to protect public health. Hurst criticized the health department's previous studies, claiming they downplayed the number of contaminants of concern.

Daryl Essen and other attendees raised questions about the ongoing lawsuit related to the site and the implications for future development. Some community members expressed frustration over the perceived lack of adequate signage and public awareness regarding the site's hazardous history. They argued that while recreational activities are appealing, the risks associated with the site must be clearly communicated to the public.

As discussions continue, the community remains divided on the future of Rocky Flats, balancing the desire for recreational opportunities against the pressing need for public safety and environmental protection.