Testing finds lower levels of arsenic in Tenleytown

WASHINGTON - Upon further review, it appears arsenic levels found in a D.C. neighborhood may not be as high as first thought.

Sources tell WTOP the Environmental Protection agency has briefed D.C. leaders on the results of samples taken last week at Fort Reno Park, Wilson High School and Alice Deal Middle School. Of the 13 samples taken by the EPA, its highest reading showed 10 parts per million -- far below the agency safe level for arsenic.

The initial findings by the U.S. Geological Survey of 1,100 parts per million -- about 25 times the safe limit of 43 parts per million set by the EPA -- prompted the National Park Service to close Fort Reno last week.

George Hawkins, the director of the District's Department of the Environment, says he's lifting the restrictions at Wilson High School, and the area surrounding the athletic track is now reopen. Fort Reno Park remains closed until further notice.

The USGS has shipped new soil sampling to an independent tester in Colorado, and expects more results Wednesday.

Mayor Adrian Fenty declined to comment on the preliminary findings of the new tests, but had said previously the city was going to wait for "complete clearance" before reopening the park.

(Copyright 2008 by WTOP Radio. All Rights Reserved.)