EPA and DEQ outline radon mitigation plans for Billings PCE site

The Billings City Council held a work session on July 7, 2025, focusing on critical updates regarding the environmental remediation efforts at the Billings PCE Superfund site. Project managers from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) provided insights into the proposed plan aimed at addressing indoor air contamination linked to past dry cleaning operations in the area.

Roger Hooger, the EPA project manager, announced that a proposed plan would be released to the public later this month, followed by a 30-day public comment period. A public meeting is scheduled to take place at the city library, with details to be confirmed soon. The plan includes the installation of radon mitigation systems in approximately 700 residential and 220 commercial properties identified within the contamination zone, which spans 4,200 structures.

In addition to the mitigation systems, the EPA and DEQ plan to sample an additional 3,500 structures that lie beneath the groundwater plume. The agencies emphasized the importance of community outreach to ensure residents are informed and engaged in the remediation process.

The council discussed the potential for new ordinances to facilitate the installation of mitigation systems in new constructions and during land use changes from commercial to residential. These ordinances would ensure that any new developments in the affected area include necessary environmental protections. A third ordinance would require landlords to inform tenants about any past environmental contamination and mitigation efforts.

Council members expressed support for the proposed ordinances, with discussions indicating a willingness to collaborate with the EPA and DEQ to finalize the language. The council also agreed to assist in identifying a city point of contact to streamline communication with the federal agencies.

As the meeting concluded, the council opened the floor for public comments, inviting community members to share their thoughts on the proposed plan and ordinances. The collaborative efforts between the city and federal agencies aim to enhance public health and safety while addressing the environmental challenges posed by the contamination in Billings.