For Release: IMMEDIATE
June 6, 2003

Rensselaer Opposes EPA’s Proposed Tech Park Sites for Sediment Processing/Transfer

The following statement was issued by The Honorable Shirley Ann Jackson, Ph.D., president, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute:

Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute is deeply concerned that the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has identified two sites at the Rensselaer Technology Park in the town of North Greenbush, N.Y., as preliminary candidate sites for sediment processing/transfer facilities. The EPA identified the proposed Tech Park sites without prior consultation with Rensselaer, and issued the announcement before the potential environmental, health, and economic impact could be assessed.

The Institute strongly opposes the proposed siting of Hudson River sediment facilities at the Tech Park. Rensselaer has made a commitment to its neighbors and the surrounding community regarding the use of Tech Park property, and this proposal by EPA is not consistent with that commitment. Furthermore, such facilities would be detrimental to the existing development in the Tech Park and could damage the sensitive riverfront environment.

The EPA’s proposed siting of sediment facilities at the Tech Park is in direct conflict with the goals of the Institute. As a major technological research university, we are engaged in educational and scientific pursuits that can contribute to the well being and the quality of life of our community, our students, and our faculty and staff. The EPA’s plan, in contrast, has the potential to introduce PCB contamination into new areas, and to create hazards where none exist today.

Rensselaer plans to launch a vigorous and sustained effort in opposition to the proposed Hudson River sediment facilities at the Tech Park.

CONTACT:Megan Galbraith
518-276-6050
galbrm@rpi.edu