GARNETT, Kan. — Representatives of Anderson County Emergency Management, City of Garnett leadership, the Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE), the Kansas Department of Transportation (KDOT), and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) met Friday to coordinate response efforts related to a roadway spill that occurred in Garnett at approximately 6 PM Wednesday.
At this time, response agencies have not identified the substance involved. However, responders have determined the material to be a thick, clear, slick liquid with no noticeable odor that left a sticky residue. Agencies are working diligently and collaboratively to further identify the substance and ensure public safety.
Based on current information, the main portion of the spill extended from the north side of the Maple Street and Park Road intersection south to 6th Avenue, then proceeded east along 6th Avenue to Highway 169. From there, response agencies believe the involved truck continued southbound on Highway 169. Officials understand that the substance spread beyond the main path as vehicles initially drove through the material before the problem was identified.
After the spill was noted Wednesday, KDOT, under the direction of KDHE, applied absorbent material to the roadway to help stop the spread of the material. EPA Friday mobilized a contractor to remove the substance and associated absorbent materials from the roadway and to properly dispose of them in accordance with environmental regulations.
Currently, there is no indication that the substance entered the wastewater system, nor is there any indication that air quality or drinking water have been affected. Out of an abundance of caution, response officials continue to actively monitor the wastewater and drinking water systems.
While investigators have obtained images from business security cameras along Maple Street, as well as reviewed camera footage along Highway 59 and Highway 169, the truck involved did not display any company name or identifying markings, and a license plate was not visible in the footage. At this time, officials have been unable to identify or contact the company or driver involved.
If you have any information on the vehicle involved in this incident, please contact Sarah Burkhart with Anderson County Emergency Management at 785-822-8584. Please monitor the Anderson County Emergency Management Facebook page (https://www.facebook.com/ANCOKSEM) for additional information and updates as the response continues.
