It has always seemed vaguely insane that NYC devlopers have been pushing for expensive development along the Gowanus canal while it smells like it does and it looks like this:

Development of the Gowanus canal into some kind of Venice-in-Brooklyn has been a long standing dream of many. But it always seemed that people wanted to build before anyone knew whether it was safe or not. Or, more precisely, people wanted to start building while MOST people were pretty damned sure it was NOT safe. My wife keeps predicting if plans to develop went forward it would be the next Love Canal.

Now the EPA has nominated the Gowanus canal for Superfund status. That means it recognizes it as essentially a toxic waste site that requires Federal help to clean up. Boy, I am glad they didn't start building yet! Imagine trying to sell luxury property while the EPA in full protective gear are cleaning it up.

But I am sure glad they are finally cleaning it up.

Here is a statement from Josh Skaller, who is running for city council in the district that includes the future Gowanus Superfund Site:

"As Earth Day 2009 approaches, the people of Brooklyn have been provided with an historic environmental protection opportunity due to the EPA's designation of the Gowanus Canal as a 'Superfund' site. We have known for years about the toxic problems in the Canal and we have hoped for decades that the federal government would support our State's efforts to engage in a real clean-up of the Canal. The area can now be cleaned and the community can decide what type of development is most appropriate for the toxin-free neighborhoods.

I am shocked and saddened, however, by the resistance to the EPA's Superfund designation spewing from some sources. Economic deals that were in the works cannot and will not outweigh the chance to build a cleaner, greener future for Brooklyn -- the unique chance to eliminate any potential for a Love Canal disaster in the Gowanus.

My position regarding the Gowanus Canal challenges has been consistent: We should thoroughly clean up the Gowanus Canal, ending any environmental risks, as part of our planning for the area. Having attended yesterday's public meeting called by U.S. Representatives Nydia Velazquez and Yvette Clarke, I am more certain than ever that the position I have taken on this issue is the right one for Brooklyn residents and all New Yorkers."

You can read more of Josh's statement here.