EPA Lead Remediation Projects in East Trenton

Risk based composite sampling and analysis conducted at the parks identified the presence of elevated concentrations of lead above the removal management level (RML) of 200 milligram/kilogram (mg/kg) in the top 24 inches of soil at Sony Vereen Playground, Breunig Avenue Park, and Grant Avenue Playground. With elevated concentrations found in the top two inches of bare soil, Sony Vereen and Breunig Ave Park were deemed a public health hazard.  

The discovery resulted in the EPA working with the City of Trenton to develop a plan that would protect Trentonians from lead contamination and prevent people from being exposed. 

EPA proposed a multifaceted approach to address the lead contamination while keeping the valuable community spaces accessible to residents. The plan included three key elements: installing risk communication signs, educating the public about lead exposure risks and prevention methods, and installation of temporary measures to reduce contact with contaminated soil. EPA completed door to door canvassing to provide public education to residents in East Trenton as well. 

Throughout the spring and summer children, parents, properties, and belongings were tested for lead in East Trenton, while also being educated on the dangers of lead through Lead Awareness programs hosted by the City of Trenton’s Health Department. By September, signs were placed at Breunig Avenue Park and Sonny Vereen Playground, informing the public of their temporary closure for restoration. Notices were also given door-to-door to keep local residents informed. 

Remediation at Breunig began on September 23, with about one week of work. Initial steps included soil cover material installation on September 25, followed by hydroseeding. On Thursday, September 26, the EPA completed the installation of protective soil covers, clean soil, grass, and mulch at Breunig. Some sections of the park remained fenced off to allow the grass to establish. By mid-October, the grass at Breunig Avenue Park continued growing well, and it was estimated to reopen to the public in the following weeks. On October 21, the fencing and lead hazard awareness signs around Breunig were removed as the park reopened. EPA contractors will continue watering the grass as needed throughout the season. 

At Sonny Vereen Playground, work commenced on September 30 with soil cover installation, which was completed by the week of October 7. The topsoil areas were hydroseeded, and straw matting was installed to stabilize the soil. The grass at Sonny Vereen began sprouting around October 17, however the park remains closed until the new grass is fully established. Watering will continue as necessary over the next several weeks to support the growth of the grass.  

At the East Trenton Library, work began on October 21. EPA contractors installed temporary soil covers over the lead-impacted areas using either six inches of mulch or four inches of clean topsoil placed over geotextile fabric. The topsoil-covered areas were seeded and protected with straw matting on October 22. The EPA also conducted continuous air monitoring throughout the process and reported no exceedances of dust above action levels. The EPA will continue to care for the newly planted grass at the community centeruntil it has grown sufficiently to stabilize the soil cover. 

The remediation at the parks and library completed by the EPA are a temporary interim action intended to prevent direct contact and inhalation of lead contaminated soils until a permanent action can be taken to address the impacted soils. The sites were proposed to the National Priorities list on September 5, 2024. If listed, the remedial program will determine an appropriate long-term remedy. As of today, there are no additional plans to collect soil samples at other East Trenton Parks, but the EPA will continue to offer free soil sampling for lead to residents in East Trenton. 

For more information contact EPA On-Scene Coordinator Jon Byk at 347-899-6210 or visit https://response.epa.gov/Historic_Potteries_RV2.

“We are incredibly grateful to the Environmental Protection Agency for their swift and thorough response to lead contamination in East Trenton. Their collaboration with the City, our neighborhoods, and local schools, has been invaluable in ensuring that this critical work was completed with minimal disruption to the community,” stated Mayor W. Reed Gusciora. “The EPA’s commitment to restoring and revitalizing our parks and public spaces has made a lasting impact, and we look forward to seeing Trenton residents enjoy these safe, beautiful areas for years to come. Together, we’re making progress to ‘get the lead out’ and build a healthier future for all.” 

“Collaborating closely with the City of Trenton and the local community has been vital to making meaningful strides in addressing lead contamination at these properties in East Trenton.” said Environmental Protection Agency On-Scene Coordinator Jon Byk. “EPA looks forward to continuing our work with Trenton to protect public health and enhance these important community areas.”

“Since January 2024, the Department of Health has built a strong partnership with the EPA, focused on addressing lead contamination in Trenton. The Department participated in a staff in-service to understand the EPA’s goals and contributed lead resources at several EPA listening sessions. The EPA also took part in key Department-hosted events, including Mental Health Awareness Day, and the Summer and Fall Lead Awareness Series. Ongoing collaboration continues as we work together to reduce lead exposure. With a shared commitment to preserve the health of the City, we look forward to seeing the positive impact of our efforts for future Trenton residents,” said Health and Human Services Director Carlos Minacapelli.

“The health and safety of our community are our highest priority. We are committed to improving our parks and playgrounds, and by working closely with the EPA, we can ensure that our spaces are safe for our children to play in and for our families to enjoy. The City of Trenton is dedicated to taking all necessary actions to protect public health,” said Parks and Recreations Director Paul Harris.