OEPA Finds Contaminants In Soil Of Homes Near Saunders Park

Ohio Environmental Protection Agency officials have found high levels of toxins in the soil of homes located near a former fertilizer plant on the near East side. Agency investigators tested soil on nine properties near Saunders Park. Eight showed high levels of arsenic and other toxins, and two also showed high lead and mercury levels. Columbus city officials are asking the  Ohio Department of Health  and the Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry for assistance. The city has set aside more than one-million-dollars to clean up the park, adding new layers of clay and topsoil.  The park was closed in September of last year after the contamination was discovered.