EGLE warns of corrosive liquid found at and near former McLouth site
Efforts underway to address latest appearance of contamination, seek long-term remedy
In recent weeks, the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE) has observed and tested a corrosive milky liquid found at the north end of the former McLouth Steel facility in the Wayne County city of Riverview, near the new railroad crossing at Payne and West Jefferson avenues. EGLE is working with property owner Riverview Trenton Railroad Co. (RTRR) and local governments to understand the situation, minimize any risks to public health and the environment, and halt the release of contaminants.
EGLE advises people to avoid exposure to any liquids pooled or flowing in and around this area. Temporary orange fencing has been erected to deter access, and signs are posted to warn against exposure.
The corrosive milky liquids have been found to be seeping to the surface (upwelling) in and around the railroad tracks on both sides of West Jefferson Avenue and have also been observed seeping into Monguagon (also known as Huntington) Creek from the shoreline of RTRR’s property. All liquids in these areas had pH measurements in excess of 12 standard units. Liquids at these pH levels are corrosive and could potentially damage the skin or cause other harm to anyone who comes in direct contact with them.
As of Feb. 6, 2024, RTRR has installed a sump pump on site and is expected to begin pumping the high-pH groundwater shortly. This pumping is expected to control and eliminate the upwelling. All pumped liquids are to be containerized and characterized for proper disposal. EGLE technical staff will be available to assist.
EGLE has instructed RTRR to provide a plan by Feb. 16 to investigate the cause(s) responsible for the upwelling of the high-pH liquid in the northwest corner of RTRR’s property and the migration from there and to propose a remedy. EGLE also has instructed RTRR to coordinate with the City of Riverview and/or Wayne County for access arrangements and sewer dye testing, as necessary.
The former McLouth Steel facility originally consisted of approximately 273 acres and operated from about 1950-95. In 1995, McLouth filed for bankruptcy and the property has been transferred to multiple owners from 1996-2017. The original property is now split into a 76-acre northern portion owned by RTRR and a 197-acre southern portion, most of which is owned by MSC LLC.
To receive these periodic EGLE announcements of further developments, subscribe to the Former McLouth Property/Riverview-Trenton Railroad North Parcel email list at Michigan.gov/EGLEConnect. Learn more on EGLE’s Former McLouth Steel Corp Site webpage.
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