Environmental cleanup continues at a former gas station in Sunnyside

Cleanup efforts at a contaminated former gas station site in Sunnyside, Washington, are making significant strides as crews work under the supervision of the Washington State Department of Ecology. The site, previously home to Johnny’s Texaco, has been monitored for petroleum contamination since 1989. Recent data reveals a dramatic reduction in gasoline concentration levels in groundwater monitoring wells, dropping from over 50,000 micrograms per liter to below 800 micrograms per liter in just over a year. This achievement marks a pivotal moment in the long-term remediation project, moving the site closer to compliance with Washington’s environmental cleanup standards. Although no completion timeline has been set, continuous monitoring and updates are being provided to the public through the state’s online database.

The removal of underground storage tanks in 2012 initiated a series of environmental assessments, but it wasn't until now that significant progress is evident. The community's awareness and engagement in this process are crucial, as the site has been a concern for local residents for decades. As the cleanup continues, it highlights the importance of persistent environmental oversight and remediation efforts in restoring contaminated sites.