Carlisle Cleaners Site Proposed for National Priorities List
Last week the Environmental Protection Agency announced their proposed addition of the Carlisle Village Cleaners site to their Superfund National Priorities List (NPL). The NPL is a list of known sites where historic releases of hazardous substances, pollutants or contaminants pose significant threats to human health and the environment.
“To have this site considered and available for additional resources to clean up, is a win for Southeast Albuquerque,” said City Councilor Nichole Rogers. “Superfund cleanups provide health and economic benefits to communities and I’m encouraging our community to engage in the public comment process.”
The Carlisle Village Cleaners site, located at 3611 Simms Ave. SE, contains a soil gas plume centered within the South Carlisle Shopping Village strip mall and extends into a nearby commercial and residential area. Two former dry cleaner facilities operated at this site from 1953 to 2017.
“Families across our city deserve to grow up in safe, healthy environments,” said Mayor Tim Keller. “We are grateful for our federal partners helping us fight for historic communities so that they get the resources they need and are no longer left behind.”
The announcement starts a 60-day public comment period for the EPA. Written comments can be provided to the EPA on their website: https://www.regulations.gov/commenton/EPA-HQ-OLEM-2024-0375-0001
"One of the major reasons I fought hard to pass the Infrastructure Law was to drive economic development by investing in EPA’s Superfund cleanup work," said Senator Martin Heinrich. "Now that the former Carlisle Cleaners site has been proposed for the National Priorities List, I will work with Councilor Rogers, Mayor Keller, and the New Mexico Environment Department to hold the EPA's feet to the fire on cleaning up this site as quickly as possible, protecting the health and safety of local residents, and spurring economic growth for the future."
On Tuesday, October 1, 2024, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the New Mexico Environment Department (NMED) are hosting an open house meeting to present on the site including an assessment of sampling results, proposed remediation actions for residential and commercial properties, and proposed schedule. The meeting will be at Life Tabernacle United Pentecostal Church, 1112 Carlisle Blvd. SE 87106, from 6:30 PM to 8:30 PM.
“Keeping our communities safe and our neighborhoods clean is a priority no matter what level you hold office,” said Rep. Melanie Stansbury. “I’m grateful to Councilor Rogers for always putting her community first and working towards a better Albuquerque. This is a great step in ensuring we combat harmful chemicals and pollution that leaves residents with lasting effects.”
For more information, visit City Councilor Nichole Rogers website at: https://www.cabq.gov/council/find-your-councilor/district-6/district-6-projects/environmental-justice