Federal and District environmental officials continued to test a popular Northwest Washington park and the grounds of an abutting high school for high arsenic levels, while assuring residents they were safe.
“There is no danger. There is no risk that we’re aware of,” said D.C. Councilmember Mary Cheh, D-Ward 3.
Preliminary tests have not found abnormal amounts of the hazardous metalloid at Fort Reno Park, but the results of more extensive tests were expected today or during the weekend.
The investigation was ordered after a U.S. Geological Survey imaging study showed pockets of high arsenic levels at the park. Fort Reno will remain closed until the results of the samples are complete. Jim Greeves, who has been growing vegetables in one of the 12 gardens on the 33-acre park, said he felt assured Thursday.
“But I’m still going to watch to see if my radishes will glow tonight,” Greeves said.
