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Congresswoman Debbie Dingell (MI-06) today sent a letter to EPA Regional Administrator Debra Shore requesting that the agency monitor the oil spill that occurred in Northville late last week.
 
“On June 21, 2024, a demolition crew’s machinery pierced upwards of 12 55-gallon steel drums and a poly tote storage container containing motor oil while taking down a building in the Downs Development site in Northville,” Dingell writes. “The contaminants leaked onto the asphalt and entered a nearby storm drain, which then entered the Rouge River. Upon discovery of the leak, Northville emergency services and the Western Wayne County HazMat Team quickly responded to the site and began containment procedures.”
 
“In the days since, I have been working closely with the city, county, and Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE) to ensure all necessary precautions have been taken to address this incident in a timely manner,” Dingell continues. “Although we await results from testing, it is believed less than 100 gallons of material were released into the environment. Two booms have been deployed to capture and contain the oil, and EGLE has reported that no oil has been observed in the river since Friday. A private contractor will continue clean up and containment measures. 
 
“Protecting our community’s natural lands and waterways is of critical importance, and I know it is a priority we both share,” Dingell concludes. “The city, county, and I have had discussions with EGLE to ensure we are taking all necessary steps to protect residents. It is critical the EPA is aware of this situation and monitors its developments to ensure this contamination does not present risks to the public or to our environment.”
 
View the full letter here.