Rockwell International Corp. (Allegan Plant)

Overview

The Rockwell International Corp. Allegan Plant covers about 30 acres in Allegan, Michigan. It operated as an industrial facility where glass, mirror, and automotive spring manufacturing left behind a mix of contaminants. Wastewater disposal was the main source of pollution, affecting soil, groundwater, on-site lagoons, and the Kalamazoo River. The site was added to the National Priorities List in 1985 and has been under EPA oversight ever since.

Fifteen contaminants of concern have been identified at the site. They include volatile organic compounds such as trichloroethene, polychlorinated biphenyls including aroclor 1254, pesticides such as dieldrin, and heavy metals including arsenic, lead, and manganese. These contaminants appear in soil, groundwater, and free-phase liquid across two operable units: one covering landfill contents and one covering the broader site area.

Cleanup work ran from 2005 through 2019. About 32,571 tons of contaminated soil were excavated and replaced with clean fill. Contaminated underground infrastructure was removed, former building sections were demolished, and 19,875 tons of PCB-contaminated soil were hauled off-site from a residential location and utility corridor. A slurry wall barrier and a permeable reactive barrier were also installed. A Record of Decision was issued in 2002, with an amendment in 2016 adjusting some remedy components. A Preliminary Closeout Report followed in 2016.

The site achieved Sitewide Ready for Anticipated Use status on June 22, 2020. Human exposure is under control across the entire site, and contaminated groundwater migration is stabilized with no unacceptable discharge to surface water. Deed restrictions filed in 2020 prohibit potable water wells beneath the site, and zoning restrictions prevent residential development. Annual groundwater monitoring continues under a plan approved by EPA in 2016. The most recent five-year review was conducted in April 2025, confirming the remedy protects human health and the environment. Two businesses currently operate on-site, employing 71 people and generating about $24.965 million in annual sales.

Community members with questions can contact the EPA's Remedial Project Manager or Community Involvement Coordinator. Site records are available for public review at the Allegan Public Library at 331 Hubbard Street in Allegan, Michigan.