EPA declares Fifth Ward's Hester House soil safe, residents remain skeptical

EPA soil testing in Fifth Ward comes back clean

The EPA reports no risk after new soil tests at Fifth Ward's Hester House. This follows earlier findings of cancer-causing chemicals in February. FOX 26's Jade Flury has the latest.

HOUSTON - The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has announced that the soil at Fifth Ward's Hester House is safe, following months of testing that initially raised concerns about cancer-causing chemicals. 

Despite the EPA's assurances, local residents continue to question the safety of the area.

Initial Tests Raised Alarms

The backstory:

In February, testing revealed alarming levels of dioxins, chemicals known to increase cancer risk, in the soil surrounding the Hester House.

The area was deemed unsafe by the EPA, prompting immediate restrictions and the installation of warning signs. 

The EPA's environmental contractor has since conducted over 50 soil samples, ultimately declaring the area safe for public use.

EPA Gives Green Light for Public Use

What's next:

The EPA's recent findings have led to the decision to remove the fencing around the Hester House.

"There is no risk to young children, students at the early Head Start, or anyone picnicking or playing soccer here," said a spokesperson. 

The agency's conclusion has been shared with Commissioner Ellis, who supports reopening the area.

Dig deeper:

• City leaders, EPA keep soil testing in Fifth Ward for cancer-causing chemicals
• Another Fifth Ward resident has died of cancer where cluster has been identified
• Fifth Ward cancer cluster: Leaders work to inform residents about issues
• Fifth Ward cancer cluster: Initial study reveals no toxic levels of chemicals
• Fifth Ward Cancer Cluster: EPA finds 41 creosote-linked chemicals in neighborhood