Detroit Dirt Danger: Toxic Fill Haunts Demolitions

Hundreds of demolition sites across Detroit are facing potential contamination from toxic construction debris used as backfill, raising public health concerns. Experts indicate that lead, asbestos, and mercury are likely among the hazardous substances, originating from sources such as a demolished shopping mall. This issue has resurfaced despite previous incidents in 2017 and 2018 that led to federal scrutiny and the development of advisory protocols.

Concerns have been raised regarding the efficacy of the 2018 protocols, with some experts suggesting they were not sufficiently rigorous and may have been circumvented by contractors to avoid costly testing. The city administration has stated that it is actively investigating and testing these sites, with results expected to be made public. Regulators are prepared to take action if contamination is confirmed.

The scope of the problem is significant, with 424 sites identified as potentially contaminated and early testing showing many exceed pollution thresholds, deemed unsafe for direct human contact. The estimated cost to remedy each property could be substantial, a challenge that will be inherited by the new city leadership, highlighting a crisis rooted in past mismanagement and prioritizing demolition speed over thorough environmental safety.