News Releases from Headquarters

EPA Set to Resume Cleanup at USS Lead Superfund Site in East Chicago, Ind.

Settlement with potentially responsible parties provides $16 million more for cleanup

WASHINGTON – The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is preparing to resume cleanup work in zones 2 and 3 of the USS Lead Superfund site in East Chicago in April. EPA has reached an agreement with several potentially responsible parties to fund part of this work valued at an estimated $16 million -- in addition to the $26 million already secured for work under a 2014 consent decree.

“Governor Holcomb and I agree that protecting the well-being of the people who live on the USS Lead Superfund site is crucial,” said Scott Pruitt, EPA Administrator. “EPA is accelerating the cleanup to keep residents safe in their homes and neighborhoods.”

“The health and well-being of Hoosier families is fundamental to our prosperity as a state,” Indiana Governor Eric Holcomb said. “I am thrilled to be working with Administrator Pruitt and his team, along with local leaders and stakeholders, on efforts at the USS Superfund Site in East Chicago. When local, state, and federal partners collaborate, resources can be directed to have the greatest benefit for communities facing these challenges.”

Additionally, EPA is pleased Governor Holcomb has announced plans to continue blood lead testing for children, assist with water infrastructure replacement and provide resources to families relocating from the West Calumet Housing Complex. EPA looks forward to partnering with Indiana to assist with these actions as needed.

In zone 2 this year, EPA plans to remove contaminated soil at an estimated 72 priority properties. These properties were prioritized due to high concentrations of lead or arsenic, or because pregnant women or children who live there are more sensitive to risks from exposure. EPA will test inside each home and conduct thorough cleanings as needed.

In zone 3 this year, EPA plans to clean up the yards at an estimated 120 properties. EPA will also test inside each home and conduct thorough cleanings as needed.

EPA’s work in zone 1 is currently on hold while the Agency waits for the city’s determination of the future use of the property.

For more information, visit: https://www.epa.gov/uss-lead-superfund-site

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