Chapel Hill Review

The Town of Chapel Hill has closed a section of Community Center Park following the discovery of elevated levels of lead, cadmium, and petroleum compounds in the soil. The affected area, located at the northeast corner near the Estes Drive entrance, is currently blocked off with temporary materials and signage. Plans are underway to install more permanent fencing and signage.

This finding emerged during an environmental site assessment conducted by a Town consultant as part of the initial planning for an inclusive playground at the park. Although a full draft assessment is expected in the coming weeks, preliminary results were shared with Town staff late Wednesday afternoon, prompting immediate closure of the area.

Town Manager Chris Blue emphasized safety concerns: “The safety of our community members and staff members is our top priority. We’re eager to review the draft assessment and work with experts to determine next steps that continue to put everyone’s safety above all else.”

The environmental site assessment included an investigation into the property's history before it became a public park. Using aerial photographs and oral histories, the consultant identified three former fuel tanks and trash heaps on site. Although these fuel tanks were removed decades ago and trash heaps buried, further testing was requested by the Town. Soil and groundwater samples taken last month revealed elevated contaminant levels in soil where trash heaps were previously located. No elevated concentrations were found in the existing playground area.

“We know our community cares deeply about not only health and safety but also our environment, as do we, and we look forward to sharing more information from experts as it becomes available to us,” Blue added.

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