In response to the presence of trichloroethylene (TCE) contamination in the groundwater underlying the residences, which groundwater serves as the primary and sole source of potable water for the residents on the Site, and a request for assistance from the Maryland Department of the Environment (MDE), a removal site evaluation was conducted in accordance with the National Oil and Hazardous Substances Pollution Contingency Plan (NCP), 40 C.F.R. § 300.410. The site evaluation identified a threat to the public health, welfare and/or environment due to the presence of the TCE in groundwater at the Site. On November 1, 2012, the On-Scene Coordinator initiated an Emergency Removal Action pursuant to Delegation of Authority 14-2 and authorized the expenditure of up to $250,000.
