2004 Demonstration Project
ROSS MetalS: Rossville, Tennessee
THE SITE: From 1979 to 1992, Ross Metals Inc. operated a
secondary lead smelter on the 15-acre Ross Metals site in Rossville,
Tennessee. Approximately 80 percent of the raw material processed
in the smelter came from automotive and industrial lead-acid
batteries. The remaining 20 percent of material consisted of lead
plates, lead oxide, scrap metal, and various business and industry
lead waste. The smelting process resulted in lead contamination in
slag, surface soil, and ground water. Remedial construction at the
site was completed in 2004.
THE OPPORTUNITY: Rossville, Tennessee is a growing suburb
of Memphis; with the community on the rise, interest in parks and
recreational areas is growing. Access to the site is convenient for
local residents.
THE BARRIER: Because of its relatively rural location, the site
had not historically presented itself as a recreational opportunity
for the rapidly-growing area. Currently, the property is encumbered
with Superfund liens for past cleanup costs. Outstanding back taxes
on the property are also creating barriers to reuse.
THE SOLUTION: City of Rossville officials and Fayette County
officials will continue to work together to remove barriers to reuse
and get the property back on the tax rolls.
FUTURE REUSE: EPA has confirmed the site's suitability for
recreational uses and the town of Rossville is aware that the site
can provide space for recreational activities, should local officials
and residents decide that such a municipal amenity is needed.
FOR MORE INFORMATION, CONTACT: Beth Walden
(404) 562-8814 orwalden.beth@epa.gov .
at
•I
Barriers:
Uncertainty about appropriate
future uses of the site; outstanding
back taxes that are unresolved
Solution:
Dialogue with community
members and the City and County
governments to answer questions
about the site and to resolve lien
and tax problems
Before:
Cleaned-up manufacturing plant;
15 acres of flat, vacant land
appropriate for recreational use
After:
Potential park and recreational area
for local residents
urmea btates
Environmental Protection
Agency
Superfund Redevelopment Initiative
updated June
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