In January 2008, Atmos Energy Corporation (Atmos) entered into a Settlement Agreement with EPA Region 4 to conduct a time-critical removal action at a former coal gasification plant. The removal was needed to eliminate the threat of benzo(a)pyrene contamination equal to or exceeding 6,200 parts per billion (ppb) in surface soils. Levels as high as 19,000 ppb have been observed in some areas of the site.
The removal action began in May 2008 and was completed in August 2008. The site was capped with soil and asphalt paving to mitigate the direct contact exposure threat. Post-removal site controls will be implemented by Atmos, under the direction and oversight of the Kentucky Department for Environmental Protection.