AGREEMENT FURTHERS CLEANUP QUANTA RESOURCES EDGEWATER, NEW JERSEY SUPERFUND SITE
Agreement Accelerates Cleanup of Quanta Resources Superfund Site
A 2012 consent decree signed by Honeywell and 23 other responsible parties marks a significant step forward in cleaning up the Quanta Resources Superfund site in Edgewater, New Jersey. Under this agreement, Honeywell will lead a two- to three-year design and pre-construction phase estimated at $78 million, paving the way for full-scale soil and groundwater remediation .
Addressing Historic Contamination
The long-neglected 15-acre site, once a coal tar and waste-oil facility dating back to the 1880s, contains approximately 150,000 cubic yards of contaminated soil laden with arsenic, lead, PCBs, and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons . Initial cleanup will involve excavating the top four feet of soil, stabilizing it with cement to create leak-proof underground blocks, and implementing monitoring systems to ensure environmental safety .
Protecting Adjacent Communities and Waterways
The EPA will also install underground barriers to prevent groundwater contaminants from seeping into the Hudson River, while deed restrictions will limit future groundwater use . Additionally, a separate investigation into riverbed and sediment pollution will guide a second phase focused on restoring the waterfront and aquatic systems.
Community Engagement and Oversight
While the EPA oversees the technical aspects of the cleanup, local engagement remains crucial. Therefore, community advisory groups have been formed to keep residents informed and involved. These groups meet regularly with EPA officials, Honeywell representatives, and independent experts. As a result, neighbors can raise concerns, ask questions, and ensure transparency throughout the process. In turn, this collaboration builds public trust and maintains accountability.
Moreover, environmental watchdogs have praised the inclusion of air quality monitoring during excavation. Since the site is located near homes, schools, and the Hudson River, real-time data collection will help protect public health. The EPA will publish findings online, offering residents continuous updates on safety measures and progress.
A Vision Beyond Cleanup
Once remediation is complete, the site’s long-term future comes into focus. Although redevelopment is still years away, local leaders are considering sustainable options such as green spaces or waterfront parks. Because of the site’s prime location along the Hudson, there is strong interest in transforming it into an asset for the community.
Ultimately, this project reflects how environmental restoration can lay the groundwork for economic revitalization and public well-being—when done with care, transparency, and shared vision.
Sources:
- EPA consent decree and cleanup overview
- Hudson River Waterfront Conservancy 2024 update
For a full description of the EPA’s cleanup plan and the history of the site, please visit:http://www.epa.gov/region02/superfund/npl/quanta
