Work on the Lockport City School District’s softball fields was delayed last week when contractors found an underground fuel tank at the construction site.
The workers were digging a trench for the installation of underground water lines when the tank was found. Preliminary investigation suggests that the fuel tank was once connected to a home that was located in the area, but was never removed.
All work stopped and safety protocols were followed. These protocols included notifying the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation, as well as the district’s environmental consultant firm, Stohl Environmental.
“The discovery of this underground fuel tank was unexpected. However, during capital construction work, it’s not uncommon to encounter unforeseen items,” Superintendent Mathis Calvin III said. “The district is fully committed to complying with all state and federal guidelines regarding the remediation of such concerns. Our priority is always the health and safety of our students, staff and the community and we will take all necessary steps to ensure that.”
District officials outlined plans to begin the remediation process at a recent meeting, having consulted with the DEC and Stohl environmental. Currently the cost of such a remediation is unknown, but the school district does have funds to cover any expense in the capital project budget.
According to a press release made available by Bridget Licata, communications specialist, “further updates on the project and any associated costs will be shared with the community as more information becomes available.”