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TRENTON, MI – Today, Congresswoman Debbie Dingell (D-MI) pressed Michigan Department of Environmental Quality (MDEQ) and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to answer questions and reassure residents after a notice of violation found increased asbestos levels following demolitions at the former McLouth Steel Site in Trenton.

“As we all know, there is a long history of environmental violations at this site spanning several decades,” wrote Dingell. “Demolition and remediation of this site in a safe and effective manner is critical for the future of this region. MDEQ and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) are critical to ensuring this actually happens. People are looking for reassurances during the remediation and redevelopment phase, as well as a full understanding of the response to this violation.”

Dingell continued, “As a result of the violation notice last week, concerned citizens, families, and local officials are asking questions and seeking reassurances. The City of Riverview Brownfield Authority has asked for an immediate halt of remediation activities until there is confidence restored in the process. They have also requested a resolution of all violations prior to work recommencing, continuing unannounced inspections by appropriate agencies, and for the state to independently collect and test ground and air samples. This incident must be taken seriously. Our future generations—our children—attend schools less than a mile from this site and are put at risk with each violation.”

You can read Dingell’s full letter here.

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