Leading on Lead: GreenRoots responds to high lead levels found on future park site
On September 26th, City of Chelsea staff informed GreenRoots of recent soil testing results from the 212 Congress Avenue site. The site was tested as the first part of the process of building the new park at this site. In contrast to past testing, these new tests revealed high levels of lead contamination on the unpaved side of the site. In accordance with the Massachusetts Contingency Plan, which dictates steps to take if contaminants exceed certain levels, the Chelsea Department of Public Works has taped off the area to public access as a precaution.
Prior to programming activities at 212 Congress Avenue, GreenRoots had the unpaved area of the site covered with wood chips to prevent direct contact with soil. Even so, out of an abundance of caution and in compliance with the Mass Contingency Plan, access to the site is temporarily restricted until we can properly remediate the soil as part of the development of the new park at 212 Congress Ave. GreenRoots has been in contact with the professionals who tested the site. They told us that there should be little cause for concern for adults and children who have used the site to attend events, hang out, and play in the past. The asphalt side of the site is still open and available for activities, as there is no or little access to the soil.
We know that here in Chelsea we have a serious problem with lead in our homes and in our soil. The lead comes from flaking paint off the Tobin Bridge, from old paint in our homes, and from the lead dispersed in the air across the city from the tailpipe exhaust of vehicles that burnt leaded gas for generations. Because of this continuous exposure to even small amounts of lead over time, we strongly recommend that all parents in Chelsea get their children’s blood tested for lead. A blood test is the only way to know if you or your child has been exposed to lead. Blood lead level tests are covered by insurance. We are working with local healthcare providers to set up an easy process for Chelsea families to get blood lead testing.
Unfortunately, lead exposure is a chronic and ever-present problem for Chelsea residents. GreenRoots takes this extremely seriously and has worked for years to fight back against the lack of action to address this issue. That lead contamination should occur on a property that we are working with the community to convert into an urban oasis of greenery represents the environmental injustices that we fight against in partnership with our community.
GreenRoots is currently working with the City of Chelsea to check for lead in residential water service lines as part of a Get the Lead Out (GLO) campaign. Call the City of Chelsea Department of Public Works at (617) 466-4209 to schedule a free appointment or for more information. Appointments will only take five minutes. The City will cover the cost of replacing pipes that test positive for lead.
We will continue to update the community on the soil remediation and park development as they progress.
RESOURCES:
- If you have any questions, contact your child’s medical provider, or you may contact Chelsea Public Health at 617-466-4209.
- Set up an appointment with the City of Chelsea Department of Public Works to get your water service line checked for lead by calling (617) 466-4209.
- City of Chelsea resources on lead contamination in Chelsea and lead safety can be found here.
- Massachusetts Department of Public Health resources on lead contamination in Chelsea and lead safety can be found here.