New Pennsylvania Superfund Cleanup Project Announced 

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has announced $1 billion in funding for new cleanup projects at 22 Superfund sites, including the Ryeland Road Arsenic site in Heidelberg Township, Berks County. 

There are thousands of contaminated sites across the country due to hazardous waste being dumped, left out in the open, or otherwise improperly managed. Superfund cleanups help transform and repurpose contaminated properties into residences, businesses, or parks and recreation facilities.  

The Ryeland Road Arsenic Superfund Site formerly housed facilities that made pesticides, fungicides, paints, and varnishes and disposed of waste. Past operations contaminated soil and groundwater with arsenic, lead, and other chemicals. New federal dollars will be used to remove soil contamination.  “We’re thankful that the federal government is helping Heidelberg Township and looking out for the wealth, health, and betterment of our community. We’re hoping to see this site turned into greenspace for future generations,” said David Randler, chairman of the Heidelberg Township Board of Supervisors.