Chabot: Fernald Closure is Victory for Community

Chabot: Fernald Closure is Victory for Community

Congressman Steve Chabot (R-Cincinnati) hailed the final closure of the Fernald uranium foundry in Crosby Township as a "significant moment" for the local community, science and history.

"Fernald workers and local residents made significant sacrifices for our nation," said Congressman Chabot. "We would not be here today if not for their hard work and determination. While today's closure is another important milestone in the history of Fernald, we have an obligation to remain vigilant and ensure this site remains free of contamination."

With Chabot's active support, the Fernald cleanup was finished twelve years ahead of its original schedule -- saving the taxpayers several billion dollars on the project. At the heart of the effort was the collaboration among the local citizen's group FRESH (Fernald Residents for Environmental Safety and Health), Fluor, the site contractor hired to implement the cleanup, the U.S. Department Of Energy and the local congressional delegation.

Congressman Chabot has consistently helped lead efforts to expedite remediation efforts at Fernald and ensure that enough federal funds were available to keep the cleanup on schedule. He also worked to address issues related to the disposal of contaminated material and treatment of groundwater when problems threatened to slow progress at the site.

Due to legislative responsibilities and votes in the House, Congressman Chabot was in Washington and not able to attend the closing ceremonies.

http://www.house.gov/apps/list/press/oh01_chabot/fernald.html