# Ground Soil Contamination Site Cleanup Phased Plan

- Link: https://greenlivingguy.com/2011/10/epa-announces-cleanup-plan-for-quanta-resources-superfund-site-in-edgewater-new-jersey/
- Published: 2011-10-11T16:21:17-04:00
- Author: greenlivingguy

## EPA Announces Cleanup Plan for Quanta Resources Superfund Site in Edgewater, New Jersey

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has finalized a plan about containing and
controlling soil and groundwater contamination at the Quanta Resources Superfund
Site in Edgewater, New Jersey. This site is along the Hudson River. Soil and groundwater
contamination originates from over 100 years of industrial activities. It includes
arsenic, lead, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, and volatile organic compounds.
These [pollutants can cause serious health](https://greenlivingguy.com/2022/08/urban-city-health-the-importance-of-green-spaces/)
issues, increasing cancer risks in some cases. Due to the complex contamination,
the [EPA divides the cleanup](https://greenlivingguy.com/2012/11/epa-clean-up-site-plans-for-quanta-resources/)
into two phases. The first phase focuses on the [contaminated soil and groundwater](https://greenlivingguy.com/2014/01/local-treatment-plant-site-for-contaminated-groundwater/),
while the second phase will tackle contamination in the river. Today, the EPA announces
the first phase of the long-term cleanup plan. A future [cleanup plan will address river](https://greenlivingguy.com/2011/11/epa-issues-proposed-cleanup-plan-for-woonasquatucket-river/)
contamination.

## Address the Contaminated Soil and ground water at the site

The plan to address the contaminated soil and groundwater was proposed in July 2010.
This followed extensive research and analysis of the environmental issues. The Environmental
Protection Agency (EPA) recognized the importance of community engagement and transparency
in decision-making. They initiated a robust public participation campaign. To encourage
involvement, the EPA held a public comment period that lasted over 60 days. Residents
and stakeholders had the chance to voice their concerns and suggestions. Additionally,
the agency conducted two public meetings. This provided a platform for dialogue 
and interaction among community members and experts.

In addition, the EPA also carefully reviewed input from over 70 interested individuals
or parties. Thereby ensuring that diverse perspectives were considered. Especially
in the development of the remediation strategy. This comprehensive approach not 
only aimed to restore the affected areas but also sought to foster trust and cooperation
between the agency and the community, thereby paving the way for a healthier environment
for future generations.

The site contains an estimated 150,000 cubic [yards](https://greenlivingguy.com/2021/11/burglar-proofing-the-garden-expert-tips/)
of contaminated soil requiring treatment to protect people that may come into contact
with it. EPA will solidify and stabilize areas of soil [contaminated with oily liquid and arsenic](https://greenlivingguy.com/2021/04/heavy-metals-in-your-drinking-water-should-you-be-worried/)
by turning them into leak-proof blocks underground. The process is also being done
in several steps. It will begin with the clearing of vegetation and debris from 
the surface, and the removal of approximately the first four feet of the surface
soil. This material was also sent off-site for disposal at a licensed facility. 
[EPA will treat the toxic](https://greenlivingguy.com/2011/10/school-air-monitoring-epa-study-of-toxic-pollution-near-elizabeth-nj-midddle-school-proved-clean/)
pollutants further underground by mixing the soil with cementing materials that 
will harden in place. The process is similar to making concrete. Clean [material is also on top](https://greenlivingguy.com/2021/09/the-top-4-roofing-materials-for-places-with-harsh-climate-conditions/)
of these solid blocks.

## Ground Water

Ground water from the site flows into the Hudson [River](https://greenlivingguy.com/2014/07/epa-urban-water-program-grant-to-nyc-parks/).
The [EPA removes pollutants from the ground water](https://greenlivingguy.com/2013/04/spruce-up-your-sprinkler-system-and-save/).
They also installed an underground barrier [system to control ground water](https://greenlivingguy.com/2015/02/rain-water-system-passive-integrated/)
contamination. This system allows the ground water to flow through a special material.
The material removes contaminants. The agency monitors the ground water barrier 
closely. They implement deed restrictions. These restrictions also limit the use
of ground water from the site and any related activities. Throughout the cleanup,
they conduct monitoring and testing. Further studies take place to carefully ensure
the remedy’s effectiveness.

![Phased soil contamination site cleanup plan with five main phases: assessment,
feasibility study, remedial design, remediation implementation, and long-term monitoring.](
https://i0.wp.com/greenlivingguy.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/the-green-living-
guy-6a547c34d7ec7.png?w=780&quality=50&ssl=1 "Phased soil contamination cleanup 
process")

A detailed infographic showing the five phases of a soil contamination site cleanup
plan.

Some areas of soil beneath the buildings on a neighboring property. That address
is 115 River Road and is also being contaminated by oily liquid. A liquod that poses
potential risks to the environment and public health. Small businesses occupy these
buildings, which serve as vital hubs for the local community, providing various 
services and products to residents. They are remaining in place for now as the contaminated
material is managed carefully and under the supervision of environmental experts.
The ongoing monitoring of the site aims to assess the extent of contamination and
mitigate risks effectively. The [EPA](https://greenlivingguy.com/2011/05/epa-improves-consumer-labels-but-stronger-vehicle-standards-needed/)
has decided that there is no immediate need to demolish the buildings, considering
that the potential for safe management of the situation exists, while emphasizing
the importance of ensuring the health and safety of those who work and visit the
area.

### Systems Being Put in Place

A system prevents potentially harmful vapors from contaminated soil and groundwater.
It also stops these vapors from entering the buildings. This action serves as a 
precaution. Periodic [indoor air testing at these buildings](https://greenlivingguy.com/2022/04/best-practices-for-indoor-air-quality-in-green-buildings/)
since 2002 shows no current exposure to vapors. Additionally, we install a barrier
wall. This wall isolates pollutants underneath the [buildings](https://greenlivingguy.com/2011/04/more-reasons-to-keep-building-our-own-electric-vehicles-j-d-power-and-associates-reports-despite-rising-fuel-prices-the-outlook-for-%e2%80%9cgreen%e2%80%9d-vehicles-remains-limited-for-the-forese/).
Moreover, it keeps them from seeping into the Hudson River.

The solidification and stabilization method treats contaminants under the buildings.
It mixes contaminated materials with binding agents. This process securely encapsulates
harmful substances. Consequently, it prevents leaching into the environment. This
approach ensures safety in the area. Additionally, it enhances the site’s structural
integrity. During redevelopment, ongoing monitoring takes place. This monitoring
assesses the treatment’s effectiveness. Stakeholders remain committed to environmental
regulations. Furthermore, they incorporate sustainable practices into the redevelopment
plan. Ultimately, the goal is to create a healthier environment for future residents.
In addition, it aims to support businesses taking significant steps toward land 
reclamation. For more details, consult the method.

## Sediment near the site on the Hudson River

[Sediment near the site](https://greenlivingguy.com/2015/02/dan-river-core-samples-show-coal-ash-in-sediment-40-miles-from-spill-site/)
in the Hudson River also contains elevated levels of arsenic, lead, poly aromatic
hydrocarbons, volatile organic compounds and oily liquids. EPA is completing separate
studies of the Hudson River contamination that will [lead to a second and final cleanup](https://greenlivingguy.com/2014/02/raritan-bay-lead-cleanup-progress-and-updates/)
plan for the site.

## The Quanta Site is the Ground Contamination Site

The Quanta site lies on River Road at the intersection of Gorge Road in Edgewater.
It has a rich and complex history that dates back to the 1880s. Initially, it [served as a coal tar facility](https://greenlivingguy.com/2011/08/spi-solar-to-serve-as-developer-of-a-4-4-megawatt-utility-scale-solar-energy-facility-in-greece/).
The [site’s operations changed over the decades](https://greenlivingguy.com/2012/01/alliance-for-new-york-state-parks-cuomo-budget-will-reverse-decades-of-decline-at-state-parks-and-historic-sites/).
By the 1970s, it became a “tank farm.” This facility stored waste oil for reprocessing.

This shift reflects [growing awareness around waste](https://greenlivingguy.com/2021/12/how-to-reduce-water-waste-when-growing-cannabis/)
management and environmental concerns. However, the state of [New Jersey closed the facility](https://greenlivingguy.com/2016/03/ardagh-groups-bridgeton-new-jersey-manufacturing-facility-achieves-iso-140012004-certification/)
in 1981. Authorities found hazardous waste oil in storage tanks. This oil contained
polychlorinated biphenyls, known as PCBs. These substances harm human health and
the environment.

Between 1985 and 1992, the [EPA supervised emergency actions](https://greenlivingguy.com/2012/02/epa-announces-summary-of-pacific-northwest-and-alaska-enforcement-actions-for-fall-2011/).
They safely removed millions of gallons of [waste](https://greenlivingguy.com/2022/06/understanding-how-recycling-and-waste-removal-works/)
oil, sludge, and contaminated water from tanks. Furthermore, they cleaned and dismantled
the emptied storage tanks and piping to prevent further leakage. Afterward, sampling
at the [site revealed residual contamination](https://greenlivingguy.com/2016/04/epa-adds-contaminated-site-in-n-m-to-priorities-list/).
It remained in the soil, groundwater, and sediment. This contamination poses a long-
term risk to human [health and the environment](https://greenlivingguy.com/2014/04/playstation-4-and-xbox-energy-efficiency-testing/).

Today, the once-polluted site transforms. It now [features a thriving waterfront community with businesses](https://greenlivingguy.com/2018/09/new-report-makes-business-case-for-building-green-with-health-and-wellbeing-features/),
apartment buildings, and major roadways. This [change showcases the resilience](https://greenlivingguy.com/2022/03/community-climate-change-solutions-for-vulnerable-areas/)
of urban landscapes. The [site is also added to the federal](https://greenlivingguy.com/2014/01/epa-ridgewood-site-addressing-radiation-concerns/)
Superfund list in September 2002. This designation highlights ongoing efforts to
address environmental hazards. It also [aims to restore](https://greenlivingguy.com/2011/05/stormwater-center-partnership-aims-for-puget-sound-restoration/)
the area for future generations.

Sources: **_US Environmental Protection Agency_**

_Visit EPA’s webpage for additional information about the Quanta site or to view
the Record of Decision: [http://www.epa.gov/region02/superfund/npl/quanta](https://cumulis.epa.gov/supercpad/cursites/csitinfo.cfm?id=0200034)_

 

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 greenlivingguy

 The Green Living Guy, Seth Leitman is an independent power producer, a green living
expert, and Editor of the McGraw-Hill, TAB Green Guru Guides. Seth is also an Author,
Radio Host, Reporter, Writer and an Environmental Consultant on green living. The
Green Living Guy writes about green living, green lighting, the green guru guides
and more. Seth's books range from: # Build Your Own Electric Vehicle by Bob Brant
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