Lead Levels In North Mpls. Cause Concern, Scrap Yard Under Scrutiny
MINNEAPOLIS (WCCO) – A Minneapolis neighborhood has a new ranking neighbors aren't going to like.
The Minnesota Pollution Control Agency says an area of north Minneapolis has higher levels of lead in the air than anywhere else in the state.
David Thornton, the assistant commissioner at the MPCA, says it's concerning.
"We need to do something about it," he said.
Officials say two air pollution sensors on either side of the Northern Metal Recycling plant found the high lead levels.
"That's very concerning in terms of violation of their permit, and we're taking this very seriously up to and the possibility of trying to revoke their permit," Thornton said.
The area affected is near the Lowery Bridge.
Sam Jackson, who battles asthma and emphysema, lives in a building nearby. However, he says he's not that worried.
"It doesn't seem close enough to affect us," he said.
He's right, although respiratory problems can come from lead.
Thornton says the concerning levels of lead would likely only affect people working close by, and for years on end at that.
"I don't think there's any immediate health concern," he said. "But we've certainly got to try and remedy the situation."
The MPCA says the Minnesota Department of Health reviewed the air quality findings and also expressed concern.
"While the results in this report do not indicate a short-term health risk," said Environmental Health Manager James Kelly, "we are concerned about the overall impact on air quality in this area and the potential for harm over the long term, particularly for those who work in the immediate area."
Health concerns related to poor air quality can include respiratory irritation, lung damage and cancer. MPCA officials say that adults who are exposed to lead can develop cardiovascular problems, and lead is known to cause developmental problems in children.
"The residential neighborhood near this industrial area is known to have a higher rate of children with elevated blood lead levels," Kelly said. "The older housing stock in this area, which often has lead paint, is the major source of exposure to lead, however any additional sources of lead exposure should be taken seriously."