Watch CBS News

Springdale residents still cleaning up dust and debris after smokestack implosion

Springdale residents still cleaning up dust and debris after smokestack implosion
Springdale residents still cleaning up dust and debris after smokestack implosion 02:45

SPRINGDALE (KDKA) — Springdale residents are raising concerns following the implosion of two smokestacks. 

A week ago, crews broke down the two smokestacks from the former Cheswick power plant. The implosion caused some damage to homes and properties. Residents say they are still feeling the after-effects.

RELATED STORIES: 

"We have all this on our roofs that's coming into the house when you open the windows," Susan Mangel said. "It's all over the trees. It's all over the ground."

She lives in Duquesne Court and said since the June 2 implosion, her home and lawn have been covered in dust and unidentified materials. 

"It's all over the leaves, everything," Mangel said. "I've hosed my yard four times and it still comes back because it's in the air. We haven't been outside a lot because it makes you cough and itch."

State Rep. Mandy Steele said her office has received dozens of calls from people with troubling questions, along with the same health concerns as Mangel. Steele said it is her top priority to make sure the dust that remains is safe and gets cleaned up.

"I have requested the DEP do testing at their site and at homes throughout the district to ensure that the material that was deposited on their properties is safe for people to resume normal activities," Steele said.

Anyone with claims or concerns had until 5 p.m. Friday to submit them. The claims for repairs went to Charah Solutions.   

View CBS News In
CBS News App Open
Chrome Safari Continue
Be the first to know
Get browser notifications for breaking news, live events, and exclusive reporting.