EPA Begins Removing Lead-Contaminated Soil from Future Public Greenspace Project in Chicago

January 7, 2026

Contact Information

David Shark (shark.david@epa.gov)

312-353-1056

CHICAGO (January 7, 2026) – U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) today began removing lead-contaminated soil at a site near the intersection of 16th St. and Peoria St. in Chicago’s Pilsen neighborhood. This cleanup will take a few months to complete and, when finished, will enable the City of Chicago to move forward with mixed-use development in the area, including a planned public greenspace project.

 "This cleanup paves the way for the development of public greenspace, enabling the city to begin work on this transformative project," said EPA Region 5 Regional Administrator Anne Vogel. "By removing exposure to contaminated soil, we are protecting the community and fostering a healthier environment for future generations."

The currently undeveloped site is in an area historically associated with the production and transport of lead, which is likely the source of the contamination. U.S. EPA, Illinois EPA, the City of Chicago, and the Burlington Northern and Santa Fe Railway have all conducted previous cleanup activities in the area.

In February 2025, after determining the site conditions warranted further environmental investigation, the City of Chicago referred the parcel to U.S. EPA. U.S. EPA’s soil sample results showed elevated levels of lead. 

During the cleanup process, crews will excavate and remove contaminated soil for proper disposal. During the excavation, workers will take measures to prevent dust from migrating off-site and will monitor the air to ensure those measures are effective. Crews will restore the area with clean soil and seed to prevent erosion. 

For more information about the response visit the 16th & Peoria Exception website.

For more information on EPA’s previous cleanup efforts in the area, see our Lowenthal Metals and Sangamon Street Right of Way websites.