U.S. Aviex was a 6-acre plant near Niles, Michigan that made non-lubricating automotive fluids from the early 1960s until late 1978. Chemical releases during operations contaminated soil and groundwater, including private residential wells in the area. EPA added the site to the National Priorities List in September 1983, which triggers formal federal cleanup authority. Potentially responsible parties have been involved alongside federal and state agencies throughout the process.
EPA identified 24 contaminants of concern at the site, found in groundwater, soil, or both. They include volatile organic compounds (VOCs) such as trichloroethene, tetrachloroethene, benzene, toluene, xylene, and chloroform, plus chlorinated compounds like 1,1,1-trichloroethane, various dichloroethene isomers, and 1,2-dichloroethane. Chlorofluorocarbons such as dichlorodifluoromethane and trichlorofluoromethane were also detected.
The original cleanup plan, selected in September 1988, used air stripping, well extraction, off-gas treatment, surface water discharge, and soil flushing. A 2004 Record of Decision Amendment shifted the approach to air stripping, aerobic bioremediation in place, monitored natural attenuation (MNA), and continued monitoring. Physical construction was completed in September 1993, and the state of Michigan took over operation and maintenance in 2004. Soil gas sampling in October 2014 showed vapor intrusion is not affecting nearby residences. Groundwater monitoring moved to a semi-annual schedule in 2012 and includes tests to evaluate MNA as a long-term option.
Human exposure to site contaminants is currently under control, with no unacceptable exposure pathways identified. Groundwater migration is stabilized with no unacceptable discharge to surface water. A restrictive covenant and easement placed by Michigan in October 2011 prohibits groundwater use, well installation, residential use, and soil excavation at certain depths. Municipal zoning ordinances back up those restrictions. AVX Properties, LLC purchased the property in fall 2012 and rezoned it to light industrial use. EPA issued a Site-wide Ready for Anticipated Reuse determination in January 2013, confirming cleanup goals have been met for current and anticipated future uses. The property now operates as an RV and boat storage facility, and one on-site business was active as of December 2024. EPA completed its most recent five-year review in February 2025.
Community members who want to learn more or ask questions can contact the site team directly. Site records are also available for public review at the Niles District Library, 620 East Main Street, Niles, Michigan.
