Key facts
- Hundreds of properties in western New York are being investigated for radioactive waste.
- Residents are calling for Governor Kathy Hochul to visit in person and address their concerns.
- Hochul has spoken with some residents by phone but has not yet visited the affected areas.
- The investigation stems from concerns about radiological waste potentially linked to the Manhattan Project.
- State and federal agencies are working together on testing, analysis, and potential cleanup efforts.
Governor Kathy Hochul is facing mounting pressure from residents in western New York who are concerned about radioactive waste discovered on their properties. Homeowners are demanding an in-person meeting with the governor, who is running for reelection, but she has so far only spoken with some residents by phone.
Federal and state officials are investigating hundreds of properties across Niagara and Erie counties for traces of radioactive material, with some elevated levels detected. The investigation stems from concerns about potential radiological waste from the Manhattan Project, the World War II-era effort that developed the atomic bomb. The discovery has disrupted residents' lives, leading to worries about the safety of their homes and neighborhoods.
Judith Enck, a former top Democratic federal environmental official, emphasized the need for political leadership from the governor, stating that the situation is significant and will require a multi-year cleanup effort. State Department of Environmental Conservation Commissioner Amanda Lefton confirmed that radiological material not supposed to be there has been found and that cleanup is a commitment.
Hochul has criticized the Trump administration's EPA efforts, though state and federal leaders maintain they are working closely together. Some residents, like Lexi Hawk, whose property was flagged for testing, believe an in-person visit from the governor would help her understand the severity of the situation. Hawk leads a local advocacy group called Save Our Backyards Niagara and has been offered temporary relocation by the federal government.
Hochul's spokesperson, Ken Lovett, stated that the governor understands the residents' fears and is committed to addressing the situation, with state and federal agencies working to expedite testing and analysis. However, Hochul has also suggested that some are trying to 'politicize' the residents' concerns. Her Republican opponent, Bruce Blakeman, along with Senate Minority Leader Rob Ortt, held a press conference criticizing her handling of the matter. Ortt has also introduced legislation to list radiological material under the state's superfund law.
The investigation, known as the Niagara and Erie Counties Radiological Assessment, began with aerial surveys in 2023, followed by roadway surveys and property access requests in March 2026. Residents initially pushed back against a liability waiver, leading to revisions. Hochul previously wrote to EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin urging him to accelerate the agency's work, a letter that EPA Region 2 administrator Mike Martucci called an 'outright lie.' Despite political differences, Martucci stated that state and federal agencies are working closely together.
Since Hochul's letter, the screening process has accelerated, with over 1,000 property access forms received and 726 properties screened. More than half of the screened properties have received a 'no further action' determination. Approximately 220 properties are still under review, and 30 have been referred for further testing or potential cleanup. EPA plans to begin remediation activities before winter if necessary. Four families have been offered temporary, voluntary relocation.