EPA Seeks Public Input on Phoenix’s Motorola Superfund Cleanup Plan

PHOENIX — The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has unveiled a proposal for cleaning up a contaminated site in Phoenix, known as the Motorola site. This location has been identified as a significant pollutant of hazardous materials, and the agency is encouraging public feedback on its cleanup strategy.

The Motorola site is situated in central Phoenix, bordered by 52nd Street to the east, Palm Lane to the north, 7th Avenue to the west, and Buckeye Road. Contaminants found in the groundwater include several Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs), such as trichloroethene (TCE), 1,4-dioxane, and naphthalene.

Michael Montgomery, the EPA’s Director for Region 9 Superfund and Emergency Management Division, emphasized the importance of this initiative, stating, “This is a big step forward to protect groundwater and ensure a future supply of safe drinking water for the Phoenix community.”

This site is one among several superfund locations in the Valley, all necessitating long-term remediation due to pollution from various industrial and commercial activities, including dry cleaning and semiconductor manufacturing. The agency has outlined six potential cleanup options and is seeking community input until December 15.

A public meeting to discuss the proposed cleanup plan is scheduled for November 14. It will take place at the Burton Barr Central Library’s Nina Mason Pulliam Auditorium, located at 1221 N. Central Avenue in Phoenix, from 5:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.

Residents are encouraged to participate and share their thoughts on the EPA’s plan. More details regarding the meeting can be accessed through the EPA’s outreach channels.