Press Release
March 16, 2006
CONGRESSWOMAN SUSAN DAVIS SEEKS
QUICK START FOR FUEL TANK REPAIRS
Davis wants storage tank replacement to begin sooner than scheduled
Washington, DC — As a fuel leak from a Navy storage site appears to creep towards La Playa homes, Congresswoman Susan Davis is working to expedite the replacement of the leaking storage tanks at Point Loma Naval Station. However, the replacement project is not slated to begin until fiscal year 2008.
"I was assured the Department of Defense included tank replacements at Point Loma in its future budgeting plans for fiscal years 2008-2010." said Rep. Davis, a member of the House Armed Services Committee. "But the sooner we can begin replacing these 70-year-old storage tanks the better."
The most recent cost estimate provided to Davis by DOD was $115 million to replace all existing storage tanks with modern tanks and support equipment. Despite its size, the $115 million price tag may not be enough, however, since DOD has stated its calculation was made in July 2005. DOD has previously stated that the full extent of the massive leak was not discovered until later in the year. Thus, the exact amount of funds that will be needed is not yet known with true accuracy. Regardless, according to Davis, the most pressing priority should be to get the replacement project initiated and moving.
Davis will also seek the establishment of an entity to allow greater community input during the recovery efforts. This would be similar to restoration advisory boards required during Superfund cleanups.
"It's also critical that the local community is involved," said Davis, a past resident of Point Loma. "My hope is for the Navy and the local community to maintain a consistent dialogue throughout the recovery, cleanup and replacement process."
Davis learned of the leak two days before the Navy began notifying nearby residents. At that time, Davis encouraged the Navy to inform the public saying immediate information is always preferable to affected communities over waiting.
Davis has met with and remains in contact with The Secretary of the Navy and other high-ranking Navy officials. She also continues to coordinate with city officials. Davis will participate in town hall meeting hosted by City Councilmember Kevin Faulconer on March 20 in Point Loma.
Along with recovery efforts, there is continued monitoring to ensure the leak does not contaminate nearby San Diego Bay. The Navy will soon seek permits to begin drilling outside its boundary to assess any incursion outside federal property.