Army Extends Comment Period In Md. Trail Dispute

SILVER SPRING, Md. (AP) -- The Army Corps of Engineers is giving people more time to comment on a disputed plan to fence off part of a popular Silver Spring running trail near an old Army landfill.

Officials said Friday they will accept comments through Sept. 11 regarding the Ireland Trail near the Forest Glen Annex. The previous deadline was Aug. 11.

Engineers want to install nearly 2,500 feet of chain-link fence around an area officials believe is contaminated with toxins and medical waste from the landfill. More than 30 chemicals have been found in the soil, groundwater and a stream.

The plan would close off about 30 percent of the trail. Some area residents say warning signs are enough.

The annex is operated by Fort Detrick in Frederick. It includes a medical research facility.

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