Recent report on coal ash dangers heighten cleanup concerns

Coal ash is more hazardous than previously thought, according to the Environmental Protection Agency. The health risks of exposure may complicate cleanup plans at more than 70 structural fill sites across the state.

Posted 10:03 p.m. Jan 10 — Updated 12:53 a.m. Jan 11

Liz McLaughlin

, WRAL Climate Change Reporter

CHAPEL HILL, N.C. — A recent EPA report shows coal ash could increase a person’s cancer risk significantly more than previously thought.

That is raising concerns about more than 70 sites across the state where at least 9 million tons of coal ash has been used as structural fill, including an exposed mound off Bolin Creek Greenway in Chapel Hill.

"This is personal to me," said Chapel Hill town council member Adam Searing. "My kids grew up here and before we knew about the ash, they were playing in the creek near it. And I don't want anyone else's kids ever to have to experience that."

Searing is the only town council member to vote against plans to build on top of the coal ash that currently sits under the Chapel Hill Police Department.

The council currently plans to cap it and build new town offices, stores, and a public green space on top.

Chapel Hill hopes to build affordable housing on top of toxic coal ash. Will they be able to safely?

"We know the ash is there," Searing said. "We know it is increasingly dangerous. We have study after study about its danger, so we should just go ahead and remove it and then it won't be an issue."

Suggest A Correction