29th and Grove contamination site: New resources available

Laura McMillan
·2 min read

WICHITA, Kan. (KSNW) — People living in a north Wichita area plagued with contamination have new options for staying informed.

The 29th and Grove Site is within the borders of Interstate 135 to the west, 29th Street to the North, Grove to the east and stretches south to around Ninth Street.

The Kansas Department of Health and Environment says contamination in the area originated with a leak of chemicals at the Union Pacific rail yard approximately 30 years ago. A health study released in June 2023 showed higher rates of liver cancer and low birth weights on the site.

On Thursday, Union Pacific said it is expanding its commitment to the 29th and Grove community. It has started a communication effort called “Action for 29th and Grove.” The effort includes six ways for residents to get information.

UP has also appointed a community liaison. Christina Long grew up in Wichita and is a graduate of Wichita State University. She said she wants to use her communications background to make sure residents’ voices are heard and considered.

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“The Action for 29th and Grove initiative represents a robust effort by Union Pacific to engage
more deeply with our community,” Long said in a news release. “With improved communication, we’ll work together to build productive, collaborative and purposeful partnerships for the well-being of our shared community.”

Additional information about the 29th and Grove site, including the Corrective Action Plan, resources and answers to frequently asked questions, may be found on the KDHE’s 29th and Grove website.

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