Problematic Scrap Metal Yard Given 3-Year Permit Extension

SEATTLE (Scrap Monster): The General Iron Industries’ Clybourn Avenue yard in Chicago has been granted extension of operating permit for a period of three years by Chicago Mayor Rahm Emmanuel. This comes amidst plans by the company to relocate to southeast Chicago. The extension would allow the company to continue operations at the current facility for three years, in case of failure of the relocation plans.

The controversial site has been cited with multiple violations of the Clean Air Act. There had been numerous complaints regarding emissions of hazardous metals from the facility. The research carried out by University of Illinois at Chicago had revealed dangerous levels of particulate matter near the facility. The EPA inspections had revealed that the facility lacked proper air pollution permit.

ALSO READ: U.S. Steel Fined for Toxic Emissions at Clairton Facility

In July 2018, General Iron Industries had entered into a partnership deal with Reserve Management Group (RMG) to relocate the existing facility to a new location at southeast Chiacago, where RMG currently operates a scrap metal processing facility. As per plan, the construction of a European-style engineered enclosed metal shredder capable to contain noise and dust is expected to finish by 2020.

The extension of operating permit to the company has invited strong protests from area residents. However, the new permits followed the standard review process, noted public health department spokesman.