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Construction at Brio Refining Superfund Site Is Complete

Release Date: 11/13/2003
Contact Information: For more information contact the Office of External Affairs at (214) 665-2200.

      Construction of the containment remedy is complete at the Brio Refining Superfund site in southeast Harris County, Texas, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Regional Administrator Richard E. Greene announced today.  The site was formally placed on EPA's National Priorities List in March 1989.

      EPA, the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality, the surrounding community and the Brio Site Task Force worked together to overcome unprecedented challenges during a 14-year process, at a cost of $100 million.  For example, the original remedy was changed at the request of the community.  

      "I am especially proud of the cooperation between the community and government agencies at Brio.  The community was a strong and valued partner in selecting and implementing the remedy," Greene said.  "The site is a true example of how government, community and the private sector can work together to provide the best possible solution for all the parties involved."

      The remedy includes an underground barrier wall, a cover system, and an ongoing underlying groundwater and dense liquids recovery and treatment program.  Additionally, the Brio Site Task Force has widened Mud Gully, lined it with erosion protection blocks and installed a vegetative topsoil cover over the blocks.

      Marie Flickinger, head of EPA's Community Advisory Group and local businesswoman, said, "Looking back, there were times I believed we'd never be celebrating the successful completion of the Brio site.  But I couldn't be prouder of how the community, the EPA and the Brio Site Task Force pulled together to complete the remedial construction efficiently and safely. Today, I know this community has the best possible remedy."

      The Brio Site Task Force will continue ongoing operation and maintenance of the site indefinitely. More information on the Brio site is available on the Internet at https://www.epa.gov/earth1r6/6sf/pdffiles/brio.pdf.