EPA Cleans Up Unimatic Superfund Site in Fairfield, Removes Nearly 55,000 Tons of Contaminated Soil and Sediment
Fairfield, N.J. - In a milestone for public health and environmental protection, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has completed the cleanup of the Unimatic Manufacturing Corporation Superfund Site in Fairfield, New Jersey. EPA removed more than 52,000 tons of soil contaminated with polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) from the site and cleaned up and restored areas where contamination had spread downstream. EPA will continue to monitor conditions to ensure the cleanup remains protective over the long term.
"Completing this cleanup is a testament to EPA’s unwavering commitment to revitalizing communities and to protecting human health and the environment," said EPA Deputy Administrator David Fotouhi. “By removing thousands of tons of contaminated soil and sediment, we are proving that EPA’s targeted approach toward cleaning up Superfund sites is delivering real results to local communities. Together with our local partners, EPA’s efforts are ensuring a cleaner, safer, and more resilient environment for the Fairfield community for generations to come."
“Operations at the Unimatic Manufacturing location left behind a legacy of environmental damage that posed a threat to people in nearby communities,” said Regional Administrator Michael Martucci. “Thanks to the EPA's efforts, we've closed the chapter on environmental neglect at this site and started a new chapter where this site becomes a valuable asset for the community."
EPA began investigating the site after identifying PCBs in soil and sediment at the former manufacturing facility and in nearby downstream areas, where the contamination posed a risk to surrounding communities. EPA added the site to the Superfund National Priorities List in 2014.
EPA’s cleanup progressed in phases, starting with investigating the extent of contamination, followed by removing contaminated soil and building materials at the source, demolishing the former manufacturing facility, and addressing contamination that had spread beyond the property into downstream areas.
EPA demolished the former Unimatic building, disposed of contaminated materials, and removed more than 52,000 tons of PCB-contaminated soil for safe disposal at licensed facilities. In April 2026, EPA finished removing more than 2,500 tons of contaminated sediment in downstream areas, backfilled excavated areas with clean material, and restored the area by planting trees and shrubs.
The current owner of the 25 Sherwood Lane portion of the site is responsible for maintaining the property until it is sold. Consistent with the 2021 consent decree that the owner entered into with EPA and New Jersey, the owner will sell the property, and proceeds will reimburse EPA and the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection for cleanup costs.
EPA will monitor groundwater in the long term as a precaution to ensure the cleanup remains effective and will conduct a Five-Year Review of the site, with the first review scheduled for 2028. The purpose of a Five-Year Review is to evaluate the effectiveness of the clean-up. Drinking water for nearby residents meets federal and state standards and is routinely tested by the Verona and Essex Fells water departments. Over the next year, EPA will also inspect and maintain restored areas, including monitoring plant growth and maintaining protective fencing.
Visit the Unimatic Superfund Site profile page for additional background and site documents.
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