Multiple Factors Contributed to the Delay in Constructing Combined Sewer Overflow Tanks at the Gowanus Canal Superfund Site in New York City

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Date Issued

Thursday, March 21, 2024

Submitting OIG

Environmental Protection Agency OIG

Agencies Reviewed/Investigated

Environmental Protection Agency

Report Number

24-P-0029

Report Description

CSO tank construction delays may increase taxpayer costs to complete the cleanup remedy at the Gowanus Canal Superfund site and prolong community exposure to contaminants.

Report Type

Audit

Agency Wide

Yes

Number of Recommendations

Questioned Costs

Funds for Better Use

Report updated under NDAA 5274

Open Recommendations

This report has 2 open recommendations.

Recommendation Number	Significant Recommendation	Recommended Questioned Costs	Recommended Funds for Better Use
1	No	$0	$0
Closely monitor combined sewer overflow tank construction progress at the Gowanus Canal Superfund site and take immediate action, including enforcement actions if appropriate, if New York City misses any future tank project milestones from the 2021 administrative order.
2	No	$0	$0
Post on the EPA's public website the milestones from the 2021 administrative order regarding the Gowanus Canal Superfund site, New York City's progress towards completing these milestones, and any actions taken to ensure the city stays on schedule.