Cleanup crews have removed the rotting food waste from the burned Lineage Logistics cold-storage warehouse in Boyle Heights, the South Coast Air Quality Management District said Saturday. Inspectors confirmed the work at the site, marking a major cleanup milestone after weeks of complaints from nearby residents about foul odors and pests.[1]
The warehouse on South Los Angeles Street caught fire June 17 and burned for more than a week. At the time, about 85 million pounds of food was stored inside, and once refrigeration was lost, the contents began to decay, creating a prolonged odor problem for Boyle Heights and nearby East Los Angeles communities.[1]
Residents had reported being bothered by flies, rats and breathing problems, including asthma symptoms. The odor and public health concerns drew continued scrutiny from local officials, while the city of Los Angeles said it would not allow the warehouse to be rebuilt.[1]
The air quality agency said completion of the bulk food removal is a major step in the cleanup process. The agency said final cleanup work still must be completed under its abatement order.[1]
