Gainesville starts pipe work at Cabot site
Crews begin replacing a stormwater ditch with a new system as part of a multi-year cleanup plan.
By Olivia Grant ·
The Cabot/Koppers Superfund site in Gainesville has operated under federal oversight for decades, with residents frequently raising concerns about soil and water quality.
Prep work began this week on the next phase of the cleanup, according to Alachua County officials. The immediate task involves replacing an existing stormwater ditch with a new pipe system.
Chris Gilbert, the county’s hazardous materials program manager, confirmed that this week marks the start of preparations following recent approvals. He stated that the stormwater management conveyance pipe system will replace the ditch between November and the end of January.
The Environmental Protection Agency recently approved plans for the underground barrier and the soil removal. The agency noted that the new wall is designed to contain contamination rather than remove it entirely.
Officials expect the removal of contaminated soil to conclude by February. Construction of the underground barrier is scheduled to take place between March and July of next year.
Signs posted at the site currently warn visitors to avoid contact with the soil and water while the work proceeds.
Source: WCJB
