AMCO Chemical

Overview

AMCO Chemical is a former chemical distribution facility in Oakland, California, that operated from the 1960s until 1989. It has also been known as Bobo's Junkyard and DC Metals. The site was added to the National Priorities List in 2003 after utility workers discovered chemical odors in 1995 and sampling confirmed vinyl chloride and other chlorinated solvents in soil, soil gas, and groundwater. The site is currently leased to businesses for storage and large mobile art creations.

EPA has carried out several cleanup actions over the years. These include a groundwater and soil vapor extraction system, electrical resistive heating to vaporize volatile organic compounds (VOCs) for above-ground treatment, and a sodium permanganate injection study to treat high VOC concentrations in shallow groundwater. That study ended early due to unexpected conditions. Lead-impacted soil was removed in 2007. Vapor intrusion mitigation systems were installed in 2009 on nearby properties to keep contaminated vapors from entering buildings. Vapor intrusion is the process by which chemical vapors from contaminated groundwater travel through soil into building basements and foundations. Remedial investigations were completed in 2011 and 2014 to map the extent of contamination.

EPA assessments show that human exposure is currently under control, meaning no unacceptable exposure pathways exist at this time. However, contaminated groundwater migration has not been stabilized. The groundwater beneath the site is not used for drinking water. EPA is now updating the Human Health Risk Assessment based on conditions following treatment actions. A combined Remedial Investigation and Feasibility Study is estimated to conclude between March and May 2028, with the Record of Decision and Remedial Design expected around the same time. EPA is also investigating potentially responsible parties who may be required to do cleanup work or repay EPA for its costs.

As of June 2026, the EPA is in the process of updating the Community Involvement Plan. The plan reflects input from the West Oakland community and outlines how residents will be included during the cleanup process. Community members can email AMCO_CIP@skeo.com to participate in conversations with EPA staff and contractors. For site-specific questions, residents can contact the EPA Community Involvement Coordinator or the Remedial Project Manager.