EPA Inks Detroit River Sediment Cleanup Deal

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has signed a $2.9 million agreement to remediate contaminated sediment along the Detroit River in Detroit, Michigan.

The contaminated sediment is within the Detroit River Area of Concern (AOC), identified by the United States and Canada as one of 43 toxic hotspots in the Great Lakes basin. Work will be funded through a Great Lakes Legacy Act cost-sharing partnership with the Detroit Riverfront Conservancy.

“EPA is proud to play a role in the transformation of Detroit’s riverfront through a public-private partnership under the GLRI,” said Regional Administrator and Great Lakes National Program Manager Kurt Thiede. “This sediment cleanup will allow for further expansion of the Detroit Riverwalk, creating recreational space for the city while bringing the Detroit River AOC one step closer to delisting.”

“Throughout my time in office, one of my main priorities has been to fight for a clean and safe environment for my constituents,” added Congresswoman Brenda Lawrence (MI-14). “Once again, the Great Lakes Restoration Initiative proves to be an invaluable resource for improving our Great Lakes, and in this case, providing Detroiters with a new space to enjoy the riverfront free from contaminants.”

The project will remediate approximately 13,000 cubic yards of contaminated sediments located along the Detroit River just downstream of the MacArthur Bridge that leads to Belle Isle.

EPA will isolate and stabilize the contaminated sediment with a “cap” made of clean material. The Detroit Riverfront Conservancy will cover the sediment cap with stone rip rap, which will stabilize an aging seawall and provide geophysical support for the riverwalk.

The Conservancy has agreed to contribute up to 35% of the project cost of $2.9 million. Construction is slated to begin this summer.