EPA continues analyzing extensive soil data; results expected later this year
Federal officials expect to release the Health Risk Assessment for Houston’s Fifth Ward later this year after a full review of the extensive soil sampling data gathered across the neighborhood.
In coordination with the EPA, Union Pacific completed the most extensive soil testing to date near the former Houston Wood Preserving Works (HWPW) site. Testing was conducted across five designated zones, including residential yards, school properties,
and parks.
- 176 properties were sampled
- Over 2,000 individual soil samples were collected
Union Pacific supported the soil testing effort under EPA oversight and continues to coordinate with the agency throughout the assessment phase.
“This has been the most comprehensive soil study ever conducted in the neighborhood,” said Toni Harrison, spokesperson for HWPW Forward. “The data we’ve collected will support the EPA’s evaluation and help inform any necessary next steps.”
The Health Risk Assessment is being conducted to determine if there are long-term impacts from environmental exposure in the area. Union Pacific will continue sharing updates as more information becomes available.
Work at the former HWPW site is also ongoing under the direction of the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ). This work is separate from the health risk assessment focused on the surrounding neighborhood.
Residents are encouraged to visit the Frequently Asked Questions page for more information on testing, timelines and next steps.
Union Pacific has been working under EPA and state oversight to investigate and remediate contamination linked to the former HWPW site since acquiring it in a 1997 merger with Southern Pacific.
Previous testing, including soil, groundwater, vapor, storm and sanitary sewer sampling, has consistently found no exposure pathways from the HWPW site to neighboring properties.