Norton Demands Investigation of New Munitions Found on Recreation Center Site- September 21, 2006

Washington, DC—Congresswoman Eleanor Holmes Norton (D-DC) today demanded a thorough investigation of the munitions found at Kenilworth Park and the National Park Service has responded by suspending construction of new playing fields on the site until an investigation by the U.S. Army is completed.

Norton said, “Only by coming to grips with the history of the transfer of this land through several parties will we even know how munitions got buried at Kenilworth Park, much less who is responsible and whether the munitions are dangerous.”

As many as three munitions have been discovered on the site in recent years. The Congresswoman said she was concerned that thus far three munitions have been found on the site which includes a daycare center and a recreation center. Congresswoman Norton will have staff present at a meeting tomorrow (Friday) with representatives of the National Park Service, the U.S. Park Police, the Metropolitan Police Department, the construction company, and the D.C. Sports and Entertainment Commission for a further briefing on the status of the investigation and the contemplated next steps. Norton said that she wants a speedy investigation to assure that the munitions pose no harm to any part of the community or the city.