The Environmental Protection Agency will continue to gather samples from the area around the Westmoreland Well Field Superfund site despite the federal government shutdown.
The work will continue at the site with EPA contractor oversight during the shutdown, according to EPA rep Alisha Johnson.
The EPA is taking samples on Westmoreland Avenue, Elliot Terrace, Henderson Boulevard, Parmelee Avenue, Kossuth Avenue, Forest Street, Chester Street and 11th Street to expand their previous test around the Well Field Superfund site. Previous tests in 2009 and '10 found levels of chemicals below their screening level, but some Fair Lawn residents requested additional testing to be safe.
The site was originally added to the list of Superfund sites in 1983 because the wells were found to be contaminated with semi-volatile organic compounds — chemicals used in paints and numerous industrial products which can easily evaporate. The new samples will determine if any of the chemicals have accumulated under slabs below nearby homes and Westmoreland Elementary School.
Once all the samples have been gathered and other data are complied, the EPA will hold public meetings to explain their plan.
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