Residents in Wildwood, which is a residential area outside of St. Louis, are concerned about the ongoing benzene problems.
Some residents believe a local parcel of fields and woods should be developed while others believe the benzene problems lurking in the area should prevent houses from being built on the land.
Developers Remain Hesitant
According to reports, the open area of land has contained signs warning developers of benzene problems for years.
However, this past fall, it appeared the land was safe and city officials approved a small subdivision to be built.
This approval marks the first time in history homes will be permitted to be built on the Superfund site.
Questions Raised About Testing
Since the approval, residents and developers alike have questioned whether the land is safe and if it has been tested for benzene and other toxic chemicals.
Many believe a multinational company pressured a city consultant and the land was never tested for hazardous substances.
Benzene is a known carcinogen that has been linked to fatal illnesses like leukemia to those who are exposed.