Reindustrialization of the Paducah Gaseous Diffusion Plant site takes another step

The first land transfer at the Paducah Gaseous Diffusion Plant site for future reuse and economic development is a step closer.

The survey of the 188-acre parcel identifies environmental impacts through review of records of past operations and inspections, historical photographs, and interviews with former and current employees.

Completing this key step for the parcel, located on the southeastern portion of the site, advances the community's vision for reindustrialization through the land-transfer process.

Portsmouth Paducah Project Office Manager Joel Bradburne said, "New opportunities are on the horizon for Paducah as we work side by side with the community and their vision for reindustrialization, planting the seeds for economic growth in the region. Receiving approval on the environmental baseline survey is a significant step in the transfer process and continues to demonstrate commitment from DOE and the regulatory parties to take action to complete safe and successful cleanup at the Paducah Site."

The survey report says the Office of Environmental Management met the requirements for the transfer, and affirms the transfer is protective of human health and the environment. The survey incorporated thorough records reviews, visual inspections, interviews, and sampling data, ensuring a full and accurate assessment of environmental conditions.

The environmental baseline survey is required under the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and the Commonwealth of Kentucky approved the document, per a regulatory agreement for the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) Office of Environmental Management (EM) site.


A cultural survey is conducted to identify and document any cultural, historical or archaeological resources that may exist on or near a 188-acre parcel of land at the Paducah Site slated for transfer to the community for future reuse and economic development. This work was done as part of a broader, comprehensive survey of the parcel. Photo courtesy of the Department of Energy