Greenville Reporter

Congressman Greg Murphy, M.D. recently held a virtual meeting with the leadership of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to discuss the ongoing cleanup efforts at Buxton Beach in Buxton, North Carolina. The beach was previously identified as a Formerly Used Defense Site (FUDS) due to petroleum residue leaks affecting the area.

In his statement, Congressman Murphy emphasized his office's long-standing involvement in advocating for a swift resolution to the contamination issues. "Today, I met virtually with leaders of the Army Corps of Engineers on the Buxton cleanup project," he stated. "As a refresher, the area was a FUD site (Formerly Used Defense Site) that was leaking petroleum residue onto the beach and surf. My office has been engaged with them for several years urging an expeditious clean up of the site."

Significant progress has been made in removing contaminants from Buxton Beach. To date, efforts have resulted in the removal of 4,600 cubic yards of contaminated soil, 109,000 gallons of contaminated groundwater, 280,000 pounds of concrete, and 2,250 feet of cables and pipes.

The Army Corps is also addressing potential PFAS or lead contamination in coordination with local authorities such as the National Park Service and Dare County. As part of these efforts, public access to certain areas is being gradually restored.

Further studies are planned to determine additional measures required for complete remediation. Congressman Murphy assured continued oversight from his office: "My office will continue to stay fully engaged to ensure the area is cleaned up satisfactorily so the public can enjoy the beach safely."