EAST PALESTINE – After analyzing soil samples, the U.S. The Environmental Protection Agency announced on Thursday that it “feels confident that the residents can safely use the park” as the annual Easter egg hunt is slated to take place at East Palestine City Park on Saturday.

The EPA stated on its website that “results show that levels of dioxin and semi-volatile organic compounds are well below any levels that we would consider restricting activities, and all are either at or below typical background levels in the United States.” In addition, the EPA stated that air monitoring at the park continues to show no cause for alarm.

The soil testing of the park was conducted after residents voiced concerns of contamination in the wake of February’s Norfolk Southern train derailment. Two samples were taken from seven different spots within the park – one at the surface and one below the surface. According to a press release from the village, “the results confirmed that the park’s soil is well within safe limits, with no harmful levels of contaminants.”

The results indicate that use of the park poses no danger for residents or guests.

“We’re thrilled that the testing has confirmed that our beloved park is safe for our community to enjoy,” East Palestine Mayor Trent Conaway said. “We want to thank the U.S. EPA for their comprehensive evaluation, which has allowed us to put any concerns to rest and focus on the upcoming events that will be hosted at our park again.”

The village and EPA have taken other safety measures. All the recreational equipment at the park has been professionally washed and disinfected, as has the tennis and basketball courts, pool and playground. Contractors have removed all the old mulch from throughout the park. That mulch has been disposed of properly and replaced with fresh mulch, including 90 tons of new playground mulch alone. New sod and landscape fabric has also been installed in the park.

Complete results from the soil sampling and testing as well as a map showing the exact location the samples were taken can be viewed at epa.gov or eastpalestine-oh.gov.

While the park is considered safe, the EPA reports that cleanup work and environmental remediation continues at Leslie Run, which flows east of the park, and the creek should be avoided until cleanup efforts are completed and further notice is given by the agency.