EPA Completes $2 Million Contaminated Soil Cleanup at Belanger Park in River Rouge

CHICAGO (Sept. 9, 2024) – Today, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Region 5 Administrator Debra Shore was joined by City of River Rouge Mayor William L. Campbell to highlight the completion of a $2 million cleanup to address elevated levels of lead and cadmium in soil at Belanger Park, located on the banks of the Detroit River at 2 Belanger Park Drive in River Rouge, Michigan.

"Protecting communities from exposure to lead is one of EPA's top priorities," said EPA Region 5 Administrator Debra Shore. "We worked closely with the city of River Rouge on this cleanup so that residents can safely enjoy the park and waterfront."

"I want to commend the EPA and the city of River Rouge for their hard work and dedication in completing the $2 million cleanup at Belanger Park. Every family deserves access to safe, clean environments where they can live, work, and play," said Rep. Shri Thanedar. "By removing dangerous contaminants from the soil, this project not only protects public health but also preserves the beauty of our community spaces for future generations. Environmental justice is about ensuring that all our neighborhoods, especially those that have been historically underserved, are safe and sustainable. This cleanup is a significant step toward that goal, and I am proud to support efforts that make our communities healthier and stronger."

"On behalf of the city of River Rouge, I extend our deepest gratitude to the EPA for their commitment and hard work in completing the 2 million contaminated soil cleanup at Belanger Park," said River Rouge Mayor William L. Campbell. "Your dedication to ensuring the health and safety of our community is truly commendable. This project not only restores the natural beauty of our beloved Belanger Park but also reaffirms our shared commitment to environmental stewardship. Thank you for making a lasting positive impact on our city."

Over the past three months, EPA removed more than 11,000 tons of contaminated soil at Belanger Park and replaced it with clean soil that was replanted with vegetation. Soil removed from the site was sent to a regulated waste facility for proper disposal.

The cleanup was initiated after EPA and the city of River Rouge collected soil samples at Belanger Park that showed elevated levels of lead and cadmium.

Access to the park will remain restricted until next year while the grass regrows. The boat launch and fishing pier will remain open for public use. The city of River Rouge is working with the Michigan Department of Nature Resources to replace trees that were removed during the soil cleanup.