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EPA proposes cleanup plan for Brookfield, Wis., Superfund site; comment period ends Aug. 10

Release Date: 07/13/2007
Contact Information: Mick Hans, (312) 353-5050, [email protected] Bri Bill, (312) 353-6646, [email protected]

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
No. 07-OPA117

CHICAGO (July 13, 2007) - U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Region 5 has proposed a plan to clean ground water contaminated by the Master Disposal Service Landfill Superfund site in Brookfield, Wis. A 30-day public comment period ends Aug. 10.

This final phase of cleanup is designed to prevent contaminated ground water from moving off-site where it could affect drinking water supplies. In an earlier phase of the project to prevent further contamination of the ground water, EPA oversaw construction of a cap over the landfill. A ground water pumping system was also installed, which removed contaminants and protected surrounding wetlands. As a result, ground water quality has improved in recent years.

For the new proposed plan, EPA evaluated three different options developed by a group of potentially responsible parties. EPA's preferred alternative relies on natural processes to continue cleaning the remaining contamination, along with regular testing to ensure the effectiveness of the cleanup. Should pollutant levels rise again, the pumping system would be reactivated. Estimated cost: $261,000 to $335,000.

The 40-acre site, a landfill that operated from 1967 to 1982 at 19980 W. Capitol Drive, was added to the Superfund National Priorities List in 1984. More background is available for review at the Brookfield Public Library, 1900 N. Calhoun Road, and EPA's office in Chicago.

Based on comments received, EPA may modify its preferred cleanup plan or pick another option. If there is enough interest, EPA will hold a hearing so that oral comments can be presented. Comments can be mailed, faxed or submitted via an electronic form at https://www.epa.gov/region5/sites/masterdisposal. Additional site background and documents are also posted on the Web page. Hearing requests or other questions may be directed to Community Involvement Coordinator Bri Bill at 800-621-8431, ext. 36646 (business hours) or [email protected].