Toxic cleanup process too slow for Islip residents

Six months after discovering toxic materials inside a Brentwood park, residents say they are frustrated with the cleanup process.

Earlier this month, the Department of Environmental Conservation told the Town of Islip that its cleanup plan at Roberto Clemente Park was insufficient and must include more soil samples. Islip Deputy Parks Commissioner Inez Birbiglia says her team met with the DEC two weeks ago to discuss what needs to be done.

"We're hopeful that this round of comments from the state will be the last and we will soon receive an approval to clean up the park," said Birbiglia.

Islip residents like Sonya Black say they are skeptical they will be able to enjoy the park next summer.

"We want the town to uphold their promise and clean Roberto Clemente Park by 2015," says Black.

Birbiglia says entering the winter season without an approved plan is a concern.

"We still need to advertise a public procurement document, select and award the work to a contractor, enter into contract with that vendor, allow time to organize materials, equipment and manpower before any material is removed from the park," says Birbiglia.

A spokesperson for the DEC said it can't do anything until it receives the revised work plan from the Town of Islip. The town says it is still working on the plan.