Abstract |
Neither EPA nor the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP) took actions needed to ensure progress at seven New Jersey-led Superfund site clean-ups. These sites were listed on the NPL over 20 years ago but still have not had a final clean-up remedy constructed (construction completion). Delays occurred primarily because EPA Region 2 and New Jersey did not use available authorities to prevent delays and implement internal controls. Region 2 and NJDEP did not implement agreements on clean-up milestones, Agency responsibilities, and enforcement actions. As a result, Region 2 did not ensure proper oversight of these Superfund clean-ups. Over the past year, Region 2 and NJDEP have worked together to revise site clean-up schedules and complete clean-ups. Continued clean-up delays will result in increased costs, prevent appropriate land reuse and redevelopment, and perpetuate concern about the risks associated with living near these sites. For the seven sites reviewed, various interim clean-up actions had been taken to address the impact of site contaminants on human health. However, the site progress profiles on EPAs public Website did not include these interim actions as part of the status of clean-up progress. As a result, progress being made on sites may not be readily communicated to the public. |