Lynwood awarded $6 million environmental cleanup ECRG grant

The City of Lynwood was awarded $6 million from the Department Of Toxic Substances Control (DTSC) in the second round of Equitable Community Revitalization Grant (ECRG) funds. Lynwood has emerged as a model grantee following the successful implementation of funds after receiving a grant from the first round of ECRG in 2022.

ECRG provides support to investigate, clean and repurpose brownfields in California that often affect disadvantaged communities. In Lynwood, the grant will be used to continue revitalization efforts of the vacant land that sits near Alameda Street at the intersection of Imperial Highway and Fernwood Avenue. Known as the Alameda Triangle, the land is an industrial five acre parcel. The Alameda Triangle possesses contaminants such as petroleum hydrocarbons, heavy metals and potential migration of volatile organic compounds from off-site properties that affect the soil and soil vapors. In response, Lynwood has utilized funding to build a Remedial Action Plan to guide the revitalization process.

“We are thrilled to receive additional ECRG funding to implement the Remedial Action Plan to revitalize the Alameda Triangle,” said City of Lynwood Mayor José Luis Solache. “This signifies the City’s commitment to remediate environmental hazards and continue bettering our public spaces to ensure the well-being of our community.”

The Remedial Action Plan encompasses a multitude of action items that begin with establishing a community engagement program to ensure full transparency and accountability throughout the entire process. The document then outlines steps to conduct soil testing, excavation and stabilization. A health assessment will also be conducted throughout the process and for the surrounding residential area.

As for the future of the Alameda Triangle, Lynwood envisions developing affordable housing options and integrating retail and commercial spaces that cater to the needs of the community. The City is prioritizing its commitment to inclusivity and accessibility throughout the entirety of the revitalization process with the hope of building community through expanding services and fostering economic growth.

“While it is important to remove environmental hazards, utilizing ECRG funds means much more because it is a step towards building a brighter future for the City of Lynwood,” said City Manager Ernie Hernandez. By prioritizing the creation of affordable housing and strengthening local businesses we are laying the foundation for a more equitable and thriving community.”