In September 2020, the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy sent the Gerald R. Ford International Airport Authority a Violation Notice demanding the airport address the release of per- and poly fluoroalkyl substances into groundwater impacting streams and residential drinking water wells in Cascade Charter Township. The source of the PFAS? Firefighting foam used at the airport.
It's been three years since that violation notice was sent and received. Now the Attorney General is filing a lawsuit in Kent County 17th Judicial Circuit Court against the airport seeking remediation and monitoring costs along with damages for the loss and destruction of natural resources.
The Gerald R. Ford International Airport Authority says its disappointed the AG is taking legal action and says a formal complaint from the state has not been received. The airport authority says it’s been actively collaborating with EGLE and the Michigan Department of Transportation seeking solutions. It’s also been working with Cascade Charter Township and the City of Grand Rapids extending drinking water supply lines in a multi-phase approach to more than 400 homes. The airport authority expressing its unfortunate discussions have come to an impasse.