U.S. Army Corps of Engineers preliminary results show no areas of concern

ST. LOUIS – The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers St. Louis District completed sampling for radioactive materials at the Jana Elementary School in Florissant, Missouri, this week as part of the Formerly Utilized Sites Remedial Action Program.

Preliminary results show no presence of radioactive material above the expected range of background levels (the level of radioactivity Mother Nature already provides).

“From a radiological standpoint, the school is safe,” said Col. Kevin Golinghorst, St. Louis District commander. “We owe it to the public and the parents and children of Jana Elementary School to make informed decisions focused on the safety of the community, and we will continue to take effective actions using accurate data.”

Structure surveys were conducted both inside and around the exterior of the school building. Soil samples were taken from 53 different locations on the school grounds. The process and methodology used for these activities followed industry-wide standards.

“We took nearly 1,000 samples and measurements throughout the school and the grounds to help us develop a complete picture of the type of radioactive material present and the risk of exposure,” said Golinghorst. “None of our tests identified the presence of any contamination from activities associated with the Atomic Energy Commission or Manhattan Engineer District which the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers has been investigating near the school under the Formerly Utilized Sites Remedial Action Program.”

A public engagement will be held Nov. 16 and provide an opportunity for members of the community to find out more information about the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers testing procedures, results, and program history as well as provide the opportunity to ask questions. This event will be open to the public and details will be forthcoming.

“Our work does not stop here,” said Golinghorst. “We will continue to prioritize the health and well-being of the community as we execute work under the Formerly Utilized Sites Remedial Action Program.”