CHICAGO (WBBM NEWSRADIO) - Governor Pritzker has announced that his office will no longer proceed with the construction of a state-funded migrant base camp in Brighton Park due to environmental concerns.
The governor said in a statement that the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency’s report found issues related to insufficient soil sampling and remediation. The IEPA recommended additional sampling, Pritzker said, but, given how time intensive that would be, the State has decided to go ahead with alternatives.
“IEPA would not approve the proposed Brighton Park site for residential use, based on our regulatory standards for remediation of contaminated properties,” said Illinois EPA Director John J. Kim. “The well-being of residents and workers at the site is our highest priority, and current and planned site conditions do not adequately reduce risks of human exposure to known and potential environmental conditions.”
Pritziker announced that the State is speeding up efforts to open a shelter building in Little Village that would have 200 beds available to families and those with disabilities.
The State has asked the City for alternate sites and other shelter options. The governor also said his office will work with the Archdiocese of Chicago to discuss shelter building possibilities.
My administration is committed to keeping asylum seekers safe as we work to help them achieve independence,” said Governor JB Pritzker. “We will not proceed with housing families on a site where serious environmental concerns are still present.
Mayor Brandon Johnson said last week independent consultants had found toxic materials at the site, including mercury and other metals, that exceeded state safety levels but that the site was safe after material was removed.
The winterized camp was intended to shelter up to 2,000 migrants, however neighborhood opponents have objected to the site partly because of its industrial history and safety concerns.
Mayor Johnson’s office has yet to comment on the Governor’s decision.
This is a developing story. Stay tuned to WBBM Newsradio for an update.
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