St. Louis’ connection to the Manhattan Project might be a footnote in history books, but for residents of North County, its legacy is still felt today. Decades after uranium processing for the first atomic bombs took place at Mallinckrodt Chemical Works in downtown St. Louis, the environmental and health effects continue to affect North County communities.
The Manhattan Project’s Reach in St. Louis County
During World War II, Mallinckrodt processed uranium for the development of atomic bombs, storing the radioactive waste near the St. Louis Airport and along Latty Avenue. Unfortunately, the waste wasn’t properly contained, which led to contamination of Coldwater Creek—a waterway that runs through Hazelwood, Florissant, and several other North County communities.
In 1973, some of the radioactive waste was illegally dumped at the West Lake Landfill in Bridgeton. Over the years, concerns have mounted regarding the contamination’s role in increased rates of rare cancers, birth defects, and autoimmune disorders among residents living near Coldwater Creek.
Superfund Sites and Ongoing Cleanup Efforts
Coldwater Creek and the West Lake Landfill have both been designated Superfund sites by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), indicating the need for extensive, long-term cleanup. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers has been working on removing contaminated soil, having cleared over 1 million cubic yards so far. However, concerns about lingering contamination remain, especially after recent tests found radioactive materials at a North County elementary school.
Local groups like “Just Moms STL” continue to push for more recognition of the health impacts and further efforts to clean up the area. The full extent of contamination is still being investigated, with estimates suggesting that up to 80,000 people may have been affected by exposure to radioactive materials.
Warning Signs and Real Estate Impact
In response to ongoing health and safety concerns, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers has recently installed warning signs along Coldwater Creek to alert the public to the risks. While these signs are crucial for safety, they bring a new wave of attention to the environmental hazards in North County—something that’s likely to influence the real estate market.
- Health concerns: The increased awareness of contamination and its potential health impacts could lead to further hesitation among homebuyers, particularly families.
- Property value declines: Homes in affected areas may see their values drop as the stigma around contamination grows, and real estate transactions may slow as buyers tread carefully.
- Uncertainty for the future: While cleanup efforts are ongoing, it’s uncertain how long it will take to fully remediate the area—or whether full remediation is even possible.
What Homeowners and Buyers Should Consider
For those considering buying or selling property in North County, it’s critical to be aware of the legacy of contamination from the Manhattan Project. Real estate transactions in these areas will likely be impacted by the environmental concerns, and both buyers and sellers should work closely with agents who understand the unique challenges of the market in this part of St. Louis County.
At MORE, REALTORS®, we’re dedicated to providing you with the latest information and helping you make informed decisions about your real estate investments. Reach out to us if you have questions about buying or selling in North County or if you’re curious about how the cleanup efforts might impact your property.
