Former Varsity Cleaners
CERCLA Remedial - Open
910 S Gilbert St , Iowa City , IA 52240
Project Manager: Jake Bucklin

Summary


A former dry cleaner that operated from 1974-2022, when the dry cleaning business closed and all equipment associated with the dry cleaning and coin operated laundry operations were removed. The site was purchased by a local non-profit organization and currently operates as a workspace for artists from underserved communities. Chlorinated solvents related to the dry cleaning operations were discovered in the soil and groundwater at the site, and subsequent investigations discovered that although vapor intrusion presented an unacceptable risk at the site, neighboring properties did not appear to be affected by vapor intrusion at a level that presents an unacceptable risk. A vapor mitigation system was installed at the site in early 2023, and post-installation air samples confirmed that the vapor mitigation system is functioning properly to protect occupants of the building. Investigation is still ongoing to determine the full extent of contamination and necessary steps to ensure protection of human health and the environment.