Starting today, the Department of Environmental Protection plans to sample the soil at several properties within close proximity of the SPS Technologies fire site. This includes parks, schools, and areas within the fire excavation area to determine if there is soil contamination present as a result of the aftermath of the massive fire that occurred on Feb. 17, 2024.
The DEP will be sampling the soil for a variety of chemicals, including polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), cyanide, metals, and asbestos. The results of the sampling should be available in about a month, according to the DEP, and will be made available to the public.
Many residents in Jenkintown have been upset with local officials over the lack of testing and lack of clarity around testing. Many residents are still concerned with the lasting effects that the huge blaze left
Last Friday, (March 14), DEP personnel oversaw soil sampling conducted by contractors on behalf of SPS on Jenkintown School District Properties, including the Abington Friends School. On Monday, March 17, DEP will collect its own soil sampling on the Jenkintown School District properties. Additional sampling will be scheduled pending access.
Future sampling is being planned by the Department pending permissions from local stakeholders. Water testing is also being conducted by the Department of Health, the Pa. Fish and Boat Commission, and the Philadelphia Water Department.
Jenkintown Borough, Abington Township, PA Department of Environmental Protection (DEP), the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), Montgomery County Department of Public Safety, and the Department of Health and Human Services are all working in conjunction to keep all communities informed on the most up-to-date information.
Residents can stayed informed on the updates by visiting the SPS Technologies website, the Jenkintown Borough website (www.jenkintownboro.com), and the Abington Township Website.
Additionally, the Pa. DEP and EPA have useful information regarding these types of incidents and general information regarding air and water quality testing that is occurring in our area.
