UP, EPA agree to more testing at former wood-tie site

Union Pacific Railroad and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency have agreed to move forward with additional environmental assessment and testing at the former Houston Wood Preserving Works site in Texas, the Class I announced yesterday.

The EPA's approved statement of work calls for UP to begin the following activities at the site:

• soil gas testing and assessment of potential vapor intrusion pathways;
• soil sampling and testing for dioxins and furans;
• additional storm sewer sampling and testing to evaluate potential impacts;
• work plan development to guide the sampling and testing activities and reduce the work's potential impacts; and
• community outreach and engagement.

In January, the EPA granted UP's request to use the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation and Liability Act (CERCLA) to enable quicker action on the Class I's part. CERCLA also allows the EPA to conduct faster sampling and testing compared to alternative procedures, UP officials said in a press release.

The cost for all action will be covered by the railroad rather than by taxpayer dollars, UP officials added.

"The EPA’s order allows us to move as quickly as possible toward solutions and proactively communicate with residents so they are fully informed as we move forward," said Clint Schelbitzki, UP's assistant vice president of public affairs.

UP has voluntarily conducted environmental remediation activities since purchasing the site from Southern Pacific Railroad in 1997.