Lenny Siegel advocates for thorough environmental investigations in vapor contamination case

Concerns over potential environmental hazards took center stage during a recent San Francisco government meeting, as community advocates pushed for more stringent safety measures related to a demolition project in the Mid Sunset neighborhood. The discussions highlighted the pressing need for thorough investigations into vapor intrusion and contamination risks associated with the site, particularly regarding the presence of perchloroethylene (PCE), a known carcinogen.

Lenny Siegel, executive director of the Center for Public Environmental Oversight, emphasized the community's demand for the same level of protection afforded to other neighborhoods across California. He argued that the current environmental screening levels are insufficient, citing that the neighborhood deserves a one-in-a-million cancer risk threshold as an action level. "All the neighborhood is asking for is a source investigation so we can move forward and get this place cleaned up," Siegel stated, underscoring the urgency of the situation.

The meeting also revealed a contentious debate over the adequacy of the existing site management plan. Commissioners expressed concerns that the plan, which was finalized in November 2021, lacks specific protocols for addressing unexpected contamination. President Swig noted that while a site management plan exists, it does not adequately detail the necessary soil and vapor sampling procedures that would ensure community safety during the demolition process.

In response to these concerns, the Department of Toxic Substances Control (DTSC) acknowledged the need for further testing and monitoring, suggesting that demolition could actually facilitate their investigations. However, the absence of a forensic examination during the demolition raised alarms among community members and officials alike.

As the meeting concluded, the call for a comprehensive soil and vapor sampling plan remained a focal point, with advocates urging that any demolition should be contingent upon these critical safety measures. The outcome of this discussion could significantly impact the neighborhood's health and safety, as well as the future of housing development in the area. The community's demand for accountability and thorough investigation reflects a broader concern for environmental justice and public health in urban development projects.