City plans major cleanup of hazardous contaminated site

In a recent city council meeting, officials discussed the urgent need for the demolition and remediation of a contaminated site in Lawrence, which has been abandoned for over a decade. The site, previously used for industrial purposes, contains hazardous materials including barrels that may hold petroleum, tires, and other contaminants such as lead and aromatic hydrocarbons detected in the soil.

Frank Gerrido, the Economic Development Director, outlined the steps necessary for the project, emphasizing that the building must first be demolished to allow for soil testing and further remediation efforts. The city has submitted a remediation plan to the state, which is a requirement for handling hazardous materials. The estimated cost for the demolition is $286,000, funded through a combination of a $185,000 loan and a $101,000 grant from the EPA's revolving loan fund.

Council members expressed concerns about the financial implications for the city and the timeline for the project. They highlighted the importance of understanding the exact costs and responsibilities associated with the cleanup, especially given the potential for additional contamination to be discovered during the demolition process. The council is also seeking clarity on the city's commitment to managing the site post-remediation, including the possibility of selling the property once it is cleaned.

The discussion revealed a broader context of contamination issues within the city, with several other sites identified as needing remediation. Officials noted that the prioritization of these sites is based on the level of contamination and the potential for funding to address them. The council is keen on ensuring that the cleanup is conducted safely and effectively, with proper oversight from environmental agencies.

As the city moves forward with this project, council members are advocating for transparency and thorough communication regarding the remediation process, emphasizing the need to protect the surrounding community from potential hazards associated with the contaminated site.