Latest sample results from Fifth Ward soil released

HOUSTON – In the latest round of soil sampling in Fifth Ward, test results show no immediate health risks to human health, according to a Union Pacific release.

In collaboration with Union Pacific and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), soil from 143 properties were tested near the former Houston Wood Preserving Works site in Fifth Ward.

READ: New cancer detection program launches in Fifth Ward to combat health crisis

“There are long-standing concerns tied to the area’s complex industrial history, and we understand the community is waiting for answers,” said Toni Harrison, Union Pacific Community Liaison. “We’ve prioritized sampling, independent testing, timely data, and clear communication. The health risk assessment will determine next steps.”

The screening level is determined by assuming 24/7 exposure by a young child for the first six years of life.

This is the third set of test results released in the most extensive soil sampling effort ever conducted in the Fifth Ward.

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READ: Elevated levels of toxic chemicals found in Houston’s Fifth Ward cancer cluster

The most recent results cover Zones 2, 3, and 4:

• Results from 112 properties are below EPA’s protective screening levels.
• Results from 31 properties are above EPA screening levels, but below thresholds that pose an immediate health risk or require urgent action.

“Union Pacific remains fully committed to ongoing remediation and long-term monitoring,” Harrison said.

KPRC 2’S COVERAGE OF CANCER CLUSTER IN FIFTH WARD:

• Fifth Ward residents living in cancer cluster call out Mayor, state senators over campaign contributions from Union Pacific
• Fifth Ward residents discuss high incidences of cancer cases in area with elected officials, medical experts
• Fifth Ward residents still pleading for action on cancer cluster found in neighborhood
• EPA chief visits Fifth Ward neighborhood where cancer cluster identified
• Family sues Union Pacific, City of Houston over teen’s cancer death
• ‘People have already died’: In Houston, residents demand relief from chronic pollution during EPA chief’s visit
• Cancer cluster found in Fifth Ward, Kashmere Gardens
• State health report finds alarming rate of cancer diagnosis among children in 5th ward
• Fifth Ward residents demand answers from Union Pacific Railroad about cancer cluster found in neighborhood
• Residents in 5th Ward, Kashmere Gardens to discuss contamination concerns in water, soil and air
• Residents fight for environmental justice in Houston neighborhoods dealing with hazardous sites and air pollution