Last evening I sponsored a well attended important community meeting at Holy Trinity in Whitestone to unveil the findings of a comprehensive environmental toxin analysis surrounding the Throgs Neck Bridge. The analysis conducted by environmental scientist Dr. James Cervino clearly and unequivocally uncovered significant lead paint contamination in the soil samples, which poses serious health risks, and large lead paint chips in piles of debris located under the bridge in ball fields, soccer fields and walking paths enjoyed by children and families of our community.
Additionally, lead paint was discovered north and south and near the ramps of the Throgs Neck Bridge. The data clearly demonstrates that quick action must be taken to resolve this situation. As a result of these findings, I have begun the process of demanding that the Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) remediate the area. I will also be reaching out to the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (NYS DEC) to work with the MTA and the community in removing any all toxins uncovered by the analysis conducted by Dr. James Cervino.
A similar situation existed a few years ago due to paint scrapping and construction projects at the Whitestone Bridge. The MTA worked to solve the problem and remediated the environment surrounding the bridge. I hope they show the same concern and commitment this time when it comes to cleaning the areas surrounding the Throgs Neck Bridge
In the coming weeks, I will continue to work with Councilman Dan Halloran, Dr. James Cervino and community leaders to ensure that the MTA fixes this problem quickly so that children and families throughout Northeast Queens can safely enjoy the parklands surrounding the Throgs Neck Bridge.
See the Letter to the MTA and the Environmental Analysis Report Below
