PHILADELPHIA (Feb. 15, 2024) – Today, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced it will begin excavation and off-site disposal of the trichloroethylene (TCE) source area next week as part of a remediation phase at the Hidden Lane Landfill Superfund site in Sterling, Virginia.

The excavation, scheduled to start Feb. 20, is the first phase in removing the TCE source area and marks a significant milestone in EPA’s efforts to restore the contaminated site and deliver on the agency’s commitment to protect human health and the environment.

"We're thrilled to begin this next step in the remediation process and bring this site one step closer to being a clean and safe asset for the community," said EPA Mid-Atlantic Region Superfund and Emergency Management Division Director Paul Leonard. "This advancement reflects the hard work and determination of our EPA teammates and our valuable partners' commitment to environmental stewardship. This milestone demonstrates the strength of collaboration and a whole-of-government approach to protect our communities and leave a lasting impact for future generations."  

EPA has partnered with the Virginia Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) throughout the investigation and remedy selection process. EPA will continue to oversee the activities and coordinate with local and state agencies to minimize short-term impacts on the community and ensure that environmental and work safety standards are met for a successful and safe cleanup effort.

The excavation phase is expected to be completed later this year.

The Hidden Lane Superfund site is one of many nationwide to receive funding from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law (BIL), which invested $3.5 billion in environmental remediation at Superfund sites on the National Priorities List.

BIL funding will also connect a public waterline to more than 100 properties for safe drinking water in the nearby Broad Runs Farm community. Construction on the waterline is projected to begin later this year. 

Once the excavation phase is complete, EPA will advance to the next phase, which includes using a below-ground treatment technology known as in-situ bioremediation and chemical reduction of the source material in groundwater. 

EPA will continue to host public meetings to provide updates on the cleanup process and address any questions or concerns from the public. 

Community members are encouraged to email r3-hidden.lane@epa.gov with any questions or concerns that they may have regarding the Superfund site cleanup process. 

Visit the Hidden Lane Landfill Superfund site page for more information.