Queens Neighbors Complain of Foul Odor from Recycling Center

Foul Odor from Green Asphalt Plant

• 🤢 Residents in Queens' Blissville neighborhood are complaining about a terrible stench emanating from a nearby asphalt recycling plant.
• 😷 The odor is described as a burning tire smell, with some residents experiencing a chemical haze that affects their sense of taste.
• 🏠 Long-time residents, like Florence Micholski who has lived in her house for 94 years, are forced to leave their homes due to the unbearable smell.

Health Concerns and Environmental Impact

• ⚠️ The foul odor is causing significant concern for residents, who fear for their health and well-being.
• 🏭 Green Asphalt, the facility in question, states they have been in air quality compliance since 2017, despite using 100% recycled asphalt.
• 📜 The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) issued an air pollution violation to the company in January 2024.
• 🏥 The US Department of Labor warns that asphalt fumes can lead to various health problems, including coughs and skin cancer.

Resident Frustration and Calls for Action

• 🗣️ Residents express frustration, stating that promises made by the company have not been fulfilled.
• ⚖️ Local lawmakers are now calling for a temporary shutdown of the facility until the odor issue is resolved.
• ✊ Community members are determined to fight for basic air quality improvements and the protection of human health.