The Village of East Palestine remains committed to keeping residents informed about ongoing environmental cleanup efforts. We continue to advocate for our residents by working closely with the EPA and Norfolk Southern to ensure all necessary remediation is completed thoroughly and safely. Transparency remains our top priority, and we will provide regular updates so the community is fully informed throughout this process. Below is the latest update on work being done in the East End, including excavation, monitoring, and future steps.
Stream Assessments
EPA teams are waiting for improved weather to reassess Leslie and Sulphur Runs, as low water levels and freezing temperatures have delayed safe and accurate testing. Both streams were extensively cleaned last year, and periodic assessments will continue through summer. The EPA is also investigating small sheen incidents reported by residents and will include those locations in future reviews.
East End Cleanup & Excavation
Norfolk Southern, under EPA oversight, has identified low levels of 2-butoxyethanol and other chemicals in the East End. To address this, targeted soil excavations began in January, with two more planned for this month. These are expected to be completed by March. The waste from these excavations has been classified as non-hazardous, and while there will be no road closures or speed restrictions, residents should expect an increase in truck traffic as materials are hauled away.
Additionally, Norfolk Southern has completed extensive environmental testing in the East End, collecting 998 soil samples, 188 sediment samples, and 67 groundwater samples. This data has been shared with the EPA to guide next steps.
Groundwater Monitoring
Groundwater testing, including at private wells, continues on a monthly basis as required by EPA’s 2023 CERCLA order. If the proposed federal settlement is approved, this monitoring will extend for an additional 10 years. Enhanced groundwater monitoring in the East End is also planned to assess the long-term impact of 2-butoxyethanol in the area.
Final Sampling & Rainwater Flow Restoration
To confirm cleanup effectiveness, nearly 3,000 samples were collected over 14 months, with an additional 1,200 from the East End. These results will continue to be reviewed through the spring. In late January, Ohio EPA approved the return of natural rainwater flow near Pleasant and East Martin Streets, marking the end of water collection at the site. The final shipment of hazardous waste has also been removed.
Next Steps & EPA Oversight
Norfolk Southern has submitted an East End Directive Alternative Proposal to the EPA, which outlines:
- Targeted Soil Excavation – Addressing remaining contamination in specific areas.
- Enhanced Groundwater Monitoring – A long-term monitoring network to track contamination movement.
- Environmental Benefit Analysis – Evaluating potential impacts and mitigation strategies in the wetland area, including excavation feasibility, monitoring options, and environmental restoration.
The EPA has found this proposal acceptable and expects Norfolk Southern to complete this work by March 15, 2025, aligning with the existing project timeline. Further technical discussions will ensure timely progress and continued community updates.
The Village of East Palestine appreciates residents’ patience and engagement throughout this process. We will continue to provide updates as new information becomes available.
For questions, contact the EPA’s Information Line at 330-775-6517.