EPA Advances Major Cleanup Plan for Jackson Ceramix Superfund Site
Cleanup and redevelopment to provide healthier future for Falls Creek Borough
PHILADELPHIA – The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is making significant progress in addressing contamination at the Jackson Ceramix Superfund site in Falls Creek Borough, Pennsylvania. During a community meeting held Wednesday evening, the EPA announced the start of final remedial actions in support of the Borough's redevelopment goals and the overall mission of protecting human health and the environment.
The upcoming cleanup of Operable Unit 2 (OU2), which is one of three areas within the site designated for remedial action and is slated to begin construction in the Spring of 2025, encompasses the Sandy Lick Creek floodplain area. These efforts will focus on the excavation of contaminated source material, dredging of sediments, and restoration of wetlands. This action aims to remove hazardous waste, including high concentrations of lead that pose a threat to soils, groundwater, and surface water. The cleanup will reduce environmental risks and promote the long-term health and safety of the local community.
“We are committed to restoring the Jackson Ceramix Superfund site and working closely with the local community to ensure that future redevelopment plans align with both environmental safety and economic opportunity,” said Mike DeBonis, EPA Region 3 Remedial Project Manager. “This community meeting was an opportunity for the public to engage with the EPA and learn more about the progress we’ve made, as well as the next steps in the cleanup process.”
As part of its ongoing commitment to community engagement, the EPA continues to collaborate with Falls Creek Borough and the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection (PADEP) to identify potential reuse options for the approximately 16-20 acres of land owned by the Borough. The EPA has aided in developing a Reuse Profile for the site, highlighting redevelopment opportunities that could include industrial or commercial uses, which would generate long-term job creation and economic growth for the community.
The Borough’s goals for redevelopment include creating better access to Highway 950 to alleviate truck traffic on Main Street and utilizing the site’s extensive rail siding and utility infrastructure.
“We’re happy to see the progress made here alongside our state and federal partners,” said Chuck Case, Falls Creek Borough Manager, noting the increased commitment to cleanup in recent years. “These efforts support not only the health of the environment but will also generate long-term job creation and economic growth for the Falls Creek community.”
To date, the EPA has made considerable strides in cleaning up the Jackson Ceramix Superfund site. To address a more immediate threat, the EPA focused on the removal of contaminated material from the lagoon and drainage ditch, was completed in the late 1980s and early 1990s. Recent ongoing efforts include the remediation of Operable Unit 1 (OU1) – including the removal of asbestos, stabilization of sludge, and remediation of contaminated soils – have laid the foundation for the upcoming work in OU2.
As the cleanup process advances, the EPA will continue to work with state and local stakeholders, including the Borough of Falls Creek and potential developers, to ensure that the future use of the site supports both environmental and community goals. The agency is committed to providing ongoing updates and ensuring the community is informed throughout the process.
For more information about the Jackson Ceramix Superfund site or to stay informed on cleanup progress, please visit the EPA’s superfund site webpage at www.epa.gov/jackson-ceramix