If you thought Newtown Creek was the greatest environmental danger to Greenpoint residents, think again. That site may be on its way to cleanup after a 30 million gallon oil spill almost 20 more than 50 years ago, but now toxic gases may be snaking into Greenpoint homes from the ground below, thanks to its industrial past: “dry-cleaning plants, foundries and other manufacturers that once operated” here, reports the NY Times. “Contaminants that spread from industrial activity, or that were mistakenly believed to have been contained or eliminated in environmental cleanups, have been discovered wafting into basements.” Weirdly, the greatest obstacle to cleaning up the toxic vapors comes from homeowners, refusing to cooperate with the conservation department and the State Department of Health. “In Greenpoint, as elsewhere, many homeowners — worried about a blow to their property values or even being forced from their homes — have ignored letters asking for access to their buildings, or have refused to answer the door for investigators.” Of the 58 homes selected for inspection last February and March, only 12 were opened up for inspectors. Here’s what they found: “Air in two of the homes was contaminated with chemicals used to dry-clean fabrics and degrease metal parts.” The cleanup costs $5,000 to $10,000, and is covered by the State. Addendum: Check out the video produced by Vice on the same topic here.
A Problem Rises to the Surface in Greenpoint [NY Times]
Photo by brianwferry.