This report evaluates the potential exposure pathways associated with vermiculite concentrate processing activities at the Ari-Zonolite facility. The site is located in the near downtown area of Glendale, approximately ½ mile from the city hall, downtown shops, and other buildings. The former Ari-Zonolite facility received vermiculite from the Libby, Montana, mine. From 1951 to 1964, the site was leased the site to the Ari-Zonolite Company. Following the removal of the vermiculite concentrate processing equipment in 1964, several businesses have occupied the site. None of these businesses were involved in vermiculite processing activities. The last occupant of the former vermiculite processing building was an automotive restoration business, which vacated the site in 2002.

The purpose of the report is to evaluate environmental conditions and data at the site to determine whether a public health hazard exists as a result of exposure to contaminants in soils at the property. The City of Phoenix considers the site to be one of its highest priority brownfield projects due to its size, location, and threat to the public. Nearly the entire site is covered with solid waste including metal debris, tires, empty drums, construction debris, refuse, ceramics, empty alcoholic beverage bottles and cans, and human waste. A large pile of automobile fragments known as auto “fluff” is present on the southeast corner of the property. Contamination of soils at the site has occurred by disposal of auto fluff and transformer oils. The contaminants at the site include various metals and polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs).