EPA is conducting a time-critical removal action at the former the former Woodhill Plating Works facility located at 9114 Reno Avenue and 9113 Prince Avenue in Cleveland in a mixed-use industrial/residential neighborhood. EPA expects the cleanup to take two to three months to complete.
EPA estimates 20,000 gallons of hazardous waste is stored in various containers on the site, including chromium, lead, arsenic, various acids, and cyanide salts. Not all containers are labeled, and some containers are missing tops or lids. Improperly storing these materials could result in the release of hazardous substances into the environment.
Crews will secure the site, identify the substances and decontaminate equipment and building components. Workers will consolidate, package and remove hazardous waste for safe disposal. Air monitoring will be conducted during the cleanup to ensure cleanup activities do not impact air quality off-site. Nearby residents may notice increased vehicle activity in the area and workers in personal protective equipment.
The Woodhill Plating Works Co. began operating in the late 1940s, electroplating copper and brass substrates with nickel and chrome. In February and March 2023, the Ohio Environmental Protection Agency (OEPA) inspected the facility and observed violations of state hazardous waste regulations. In December 2024, OEPA determined that the owner did not have the ability to correct the issues and referred the site to EPA to evaluate for potential cleanup. EPA evaluated and sampled the site in May 2025 and confirmed the presence of hazardous waste.
