For Release: 04/18/2014

MICHIGAN GAS UTILITIES EXCAVATING OLD PLANT SITE IN COLDWATER

Monroe, MI - Michigan Gas Utilities (MGU) will be excavating and remediating a former manufactured gas plant (MGP) in Upson Plaza in downtown Coldwater, an MGU official said today. As part of the remediation process, excavation is scheduled to begin in early May of 2014.

Nick Krzeminski, MGU External Affairs Manager said the company was coordinating the remediation with Coldwater city officials and the Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ). "Based on an environmental study of the site, we feel that the area poses no health problems for residents in the area,he said. "However, we are taking these remedial actions as part of MGU's commitment to protect and improve the environment in Coldwater.

A predecessor of MGU built the original manufactured gas plant between Hanchett and Clay Streets. The plant began operating at the site in 1861 and ran for almost 70 years. Prior to the use of propane and natural gas as a common energy source, Michigan communities such as Coldwater relied on MGPs to produce gas derived from heating coal at high pressure. The manufactured gas was then used to supply energy for street and home lighting, heating and cooking. The major by-product of the MGP process was coal tar, which typically was collected and sold for use in medicines, shampoos, road tar and roofing materials. Studies have shown levels of MGP chemical by-products at the former plant site exceed DEQ standards.

"During the remedial activities there will be some odor and noise,Krzeminski said. "However, any air emissions will be monitored throughout the process and we are asking people who work or live in the area for patience during this site clean-up.

Following this clean-up effort, the city will be responsible for restoration of the Upson Plaza parking lot Krzeminski said. "At the same time, MGU will work with the DEQ to establish future plans. We intend to keep the community fully informed of all activities at this site.

  • Nick Krzeminski
    External Affairs Manager
    (517)278-3531
  • Media Hotline
    800-977-2250
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