EPA removing PCB contamination at North Austin Community Center
CHICAGO — The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced Monday that they are removing contamination of polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) at the North Austin Community Center.
The center, which is located at 1841 N. Laramie, opened in early 2023.
Creating the North Austin Center was part of a joint effort between former Cubs World Series champion Jason Heyward and his wife, Vedrana, Chicago Fire FC, the Chicago Fire Foundation, By The Hand Club For Kids, Grace, and Peace Revive Center and Intentional Sports.
The 150,000 square-foot center includes classrooms, an auditorium, two full-size basketball courts, and a 110-yard turf “Chicago Fire FC Field” that’s one of the biggest in Chicago.
Beginning last week, the removal of the PCBs is expected to take four to six weeks. Residents may see increased truck traffic around the center.
Excavated areas will be backfilled using clean stone, followed by concrete, asphalt and topsoil to restore the surfaces. The contaminated material will be transported off-site to permitted landfills.
The site been fenced off to limit public access and the EPA said they will monitor air quality.
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