The Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) has done it again. In 2008 we were told that the excavation project on Goulden Avenue would use a mechanical method known as “hoe ramming.” But the DEP lied to us! They never intended to use this quieter and safer method. Our community activists learned that in spring 2009, DEP will begin “surface blasting,” a process that presents potential danger to all who live near the Jerome Park Reservoir.

“Surface blasting” creates extreme noise, emits tons of dust and kicks up bits of rock. Huge numbers of trucks will rumble through our street daily to cart away the disruptive methods of excavation. But DEP refuses to explore and consider other options.

To add ‘insult to injury,’ DEP held a meeting this past week to discuss its plans. Why have a meeting during Presidents Week when schools are closed and many families are away? The impact of this excavation will fall hardest on the students of the Bronx High School of Science and DeWitt Clinton High School and the residents of Scott Tower, Tracey Towers and the two Amalgamated Towers.

We cannot allow DEP to begin “surface blasting.” Please write, phone or e-mail the DEP and all our elected officials to stop the excavation until this issue is re-examined for its impact on our community. Do not let the DEP get away with another public relations scam when our health and safety are concerned.

-Sonia Lappin

The author is a member of the Scott Tower board of directors, the Friends of Jerome Park Reservoir and the Bronx Council on Environmental Quality.