In response to concerns about possible lead contamination at the Community Garden on Marion Street, the Borough of Red Bank quickly began an investigation and closed the garden to the public out of an abundance of caution.  The Borough of Red Bank engaged CME Associates to conduct an assessment and investigation.  Samples were obtained on Friday, August 16, 2019.  On Thursday, August 29, 2019, the Borough of Red Bank received a report of Findings & Recommendations prepared by Behram Turan, P.E., a Licensed Site Remediation Professional and the Director of Environmental Services with CME Associates.  The complete report can be downloaded through this link.

While lead was detected at various concentrations in the soil samples, none of the results indicate any lead contamination above New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection standards in the top two feet of soil, and no immediate response is needed by the NJDEP for the soil. Lead was not detected in any of the vegetable samples.  As a result of the findings and in light of the timing in the season, the Community Garden will remain closed until further notice to allow CME to provide the Borough with recommendations for appropriate remedial actions.  Members of the Community Garden will receive a refund for their 2019 fees as a result of the inconvenience.