Home / Environment / NYC Creek Cleanup Sparks Lawsuit Over Chlorine Dangers
NYC Creek Cleanup Sparks Lawsuit Over Chlorine Dangers
13 Mar
Summary
- NYC plans chlorine treatment for Flushing Creek to combat bacteria.
- Environmentalists claim chlorine will harm aquatic life and seagrass.
- Groups are suing the city, citing inadequate environmental review.
New York City's Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) announced plans to use chlorine to sanitize Flushing Creek, a move now facing a lawsuit from environmental groups. The DEP is under orders from state regulators to address bacteria in Flushing Bay, which receives runoff from the city's combined sewer system. During heavy rains, this system releases industrial wastewater and sewage into the creek.
Environmental advocates, including Guardians of Flushing Bay, Riverkeeper, and Save the Sound, are challenging the proposed Willets Point facility for chlorination and dechlorination. They contend that the chemical treatment will kill essential aquatic life, such as seagrass, mussels, oysters, and fish, and eliminate beneficial bacteria along with the harmful ones.
The lawsuit alleges the DEP has not sufficiently evaluated the adverse impacts of chlorination on water quality and aquatic life. Critics argue the city is proceeding without a comprehensive environmental review, especially as the area prepares for new development like a soccer stadium and casino. They suggest alternative strategies, such as wastewater treatment at Rikers Island or a stormwater tank at the former Flushing Airport.
The DEP declined to comment on the ongoing lawsuit, deferring to the New York City Law Department, which stated the case is under review. The timeline for the proposed chlorination remains undisclosed.
