Tests at Proposed School Sites Deemed Inadequate
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LOS ANGELES — A preliminary state evaluation of toxic contamination at several potential new school sites has concluded that Los Angeles school officials did not conduct adequate environmental testing.
The state Department of Toxic Substances Control will require the district to conduct further testing at four properties where previous industrial uses have left chemicals that could be harmful to students.
The evaluation also found copper and lead readings at an existing school, Nevin Avenue Elementary, that could pose a danger.
No recommendation was made on a fifth site because school officials may have decided against using it for a new school, state officials said.
In a letter sent to the district Monday, the department outlined testing regimens including review of aerial and historical documents, ground water samples, soil vapor measurements and statistical risk assessments.
The testing could cost millions of dollars. Remediation of any problems found could be even more costly.
Similar testing has been ordered on two other sites reviewed last year, including the new Belmont High School near downtown.
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