Submit your claim details for a free, no obligation case review
Get Started:
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) will begin a huge asbestos removal task at the 7.5-acre Big Tex site near San Antonio, Texas, where more than 100,000 tons of asbestos-tainted vermiculite were processed. The vermiculite was from the infamous W.R. Grace mines in Libby, Montana.
The site is called Big Tex based on the Big Tex grain company whose logo remains on one of the buildings. However, it is the Grace vermiculite processing that left behind toxic levels of asbestos in the soil at the site. At least 1,100 cubic yards of contaminated soil — about six inches deep across multiple areas — will be removed by EPA crews starting on Nov. 24.
The crew members will be wearing full protective gear. The contaminated soil will be taken for burial at a landfill, and the site will be freed for development by its current owner, James Lifshutz, who has stated his intentions to tear down the existing buildings on the site and put up a mixed-use development.
Lifshutz, who purchased the site long after the vermiculite processing was discontinued, said he is glad the EPA is proceeding with the asbestos removal. He noted, "I'm pleased that it appears this is finally going to happen, and that when it does happen there will be no questions left about the safety of the site…that's what I've been asking for all along."
However, Lifshutz may be held liable for some of the cost of the cleanup, which is estimated to be $500,000. Apparently, the EPA will cover the cleanup costs initially and then will attempt to recover the costs from the site's former and/or current owners.
(Source: My San Antonio)
If there's an asbestos-contaminated industrial site in your area, contact us to speak with an asbestos attorney in your area to discuss your concerns.