
Fifth Ward residents have raised concerns about potential health risks from the soil in their neighborhood. Recent soil samples taken around the former Houston Wood Preserving Works site showed no immediate health risks, according to Click2Houston. The testing, which covered 143 properties near the industrial site, was conducted through a joint effort by Union Pacific and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).
In a statement obtained by Click2Houston, Union Pacific's Community Liaison Toni Harrison commented, "There are long-standing concerns tied to the area’s complex industrial history, and we understand the community is waiting for answers." He added, "We’ve prioritized sampling, independent testing, timely data, and clear communication. The health risk assessment will determine next steps." The soil screening levels used for these tests are based on scenarios of continuous exposure, particularly involving young children, in order to prioritize caution.
Out of the sampled properties, 112 reported levels below the EPA's protective screening benchmarks, as per KHOU 11. The remaining 31 properties did have soil results above the EPA's screening levels but were still considered below the threshold for immediate health risks or emergency interventions.
Union Pacific's Harrison conveyed the company's commitment, saying, "Union Pacific remains fully committed to ongoing remediation and long-term monitoring." KHOU 11 notes that the EPA is slated to host an open house on April 10, offering the Fifth Ward community a chance to directly engage with Union Pacific representatives and get their questions answered.
Property owners, or their legal representatives, are receiving soil test results privately to respect their privacy. The final set of soil sample results, collected between November and December of 2024, is anticipated to reach property owners by the end of this month. A comprehensive health risk assessment is planned for this summer to guide future actions.