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1. What parks are part of the independent scientific study?

Environmental studies will be conducted at the five parks mentioned in the student’s report: East Durham Park, East End Park, Walltown Park, Lyon Park, and Northgate Park. 

Environmental assessment experts, Mid-Atlantic Associates, have been hired to conduct this study. Mid-Atlantic Associates is an engineering and environmental consulting firm that has worked in Durham for a number of years and provided their expertise on many large-scale projects, including a Brownfields assessment and remediation services to support the redevelopment of Golden Belt in downtown Durham. 

Mid-Atlantic will conduct an environmental assessment of all five parks following the guidelines established through the NCDEQ’s Registered Environmental Consultant Program. 

2. Can the parks be used while the independent scientific study is underway?

Yes. The areas identified as areas of potential concern in the student report are not high traffic areas or playgrounds. The sampling will not impact park use in any way. The City has also met with Durham County’s Public Health team who are supportive of continuing use of the parks with the information available at this time. 

NO play areas were identified in the student report as potentially concerning. 

Signage noting that environmental soil and property testing is underway will be installed in all five parks. The signs will include a website link and QR code to the City’s website with more information about the project.

The Durham County Department of Public Health manages the Lead Education and Assessment Program (LEAP), which offers services to increase lead education and awareness. You may email their staff or call 919-560-4842 for further information and assistance. 

3. Is the drinking water in Durham safe?

Yes. Durham’s drinking water is safe to drink and use and is tested daily for lead and other contaminants. There are no detectable levels of lead in water leaving Durham’s Water Treatment Plants and the results from the student report do not impact City of Durham drinking water. 

4. When will I hear more about the independent scientific study?

More information will be available in the coming weeks online at dprplaymore.org. 

The City is planning a public information session in late June at City Hall to inform the community about the study and answer questions. There will be options for attending in person, virtually, or watching live. Once the date and time are finalized, this information will be posted on the project webpage and shared with the community as well. 

The environmental assessment will take about 5-6 weeks and the City will communicate results in late July. A second public meeting will be held at this time. The environmental assessment results and any recommendations from the North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality (NCDEQ)-certified contractor will determine next steps. 

5. Where can I find public health information about lead education and awareness?

• The Durham County Department of Public Health manages the Lead Education and Assessment Program (LEAP), which offers services to increase lead education and awareness. Their website has helpful information about ways you can protect your family from possible lead exposure. Visit their website, email their staff, or call 919-560-4842 for further information and assistance.