Environmental remediation of the former 5Pointz site, the next step to transform the former graffiti mecca into a massive housing development, is set to begin soon following a public review.
After investigating the Long Island City site, which comprises an entire block bounded by Jackson Avenue, Davis Street and Crane Street, developer Jerry Wolkoff and his firm G&M Realty LP proposed a remedial plan.
The investigation results were reviewed by the New York State Department of Health and the Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC). The agencies found that the site “does not pose a significant threat to human health and the environment.”
DEC is accepting written comments from the public about the proposed cleanup plan by G&M Realty until April 11. Residents can review the plan by reaching out to DEC’s Region 2 office at 47-40 21st St. in Long Island City.
The site is tainted by metals in soil, including mercury, lead and zinc, according to DEC, as well as organic compound contaminants.
The nearly three-acre site was historically known as the Neptune Meter Company, which manufactured water meters from the 1890s until the 1970s. It became the graffiti mecca later and also hosted other tenants.
Following public comments, the state agency plans to revise the cleanup plan, and then the state Department of Health must approve it. After that, G&M Realty can begin cleaning up the site.
About two months ago, The United States Patent and Trademark Office denied Wolkoff’s application to trademark the 5Pointz name for the apartment towers planned for the site.
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