U.S. Steel Reaches $1.5 Million Settlement Over Air Pollution Claims from Edgar Thomson Plant
In a significant environmental case, U.S. Steel has agreed to a $1.5 million settlement regarding a class action lawsuit filed by residents living near its Edgar Thomson Plant in Braddock, Pennsylvania. The settlement, approved by Allegheny County Court of Common Pleas Judge Alan D. Hertzberg, resolves allegations of air pollution that negatively impacted the quality of life for individuals living in the surrounding communities.
The Complaint and Allegations
The lawsuit originally stemmed from complaints by local residents, particularly the lead plaintiff, a woman from West Mifflin, who alleged that the plant emitted “noxious odors and fugitive dust” that disrupted her ability to enjoy her property. According to the complaint, there were instances when the odor from the plant was so intense that the plaintiff found it difficult to breathe, especially during some nights when the air quality was at its worst. The air pollution reportedly made outdoor activities unbearable and reduced the overall livability of the area.
The Edgar Thomson Plant, a critical part of U.S. Steel’s operations, has long been a source of controversy, not only for its economic importance but also due to its environmental impact. The plant, which operates as a major steel production facility, emits various pollutants, including particulate matter and other airborne contaminants, contributing to poor air quality in its surrounding neighborhoods.
The Settlement and Company’s Response
As part of the legal settlement, U.S. Steel agreed to pay $1.5 million in compensation to affected residents. The settlement will provide compensation to individuals who lived within one mile of the Edgar Thomson Plant from 2020 onward. This settlement impacts an estimated 3,700 households across the boroughs of Braddock, North Braddock, and East Pittsburgh, as well as parts of nearby municipalities.
The company, while agreeing to the settlement, has denied all allegations related to air pollution and its environmental impact. Despite the settlement agreement, U.S. Steel maintains that it did not intentionally cause harm to the local community. However, the company has committed to spending an additional $4.5 million on “Environmental Improvement Projects” at the plant, which is intended to mitigate pollution and improve air quality for residents in the future. The specific nature of these environmental projects is yet to be outlined, but the company’s willingness to invest in upgrading its operations reflects the growing importance of corporate environmental responsibility.
The Broader Context of Environmental Violations
This is not the first time that U.S. Steel has faced consequences for air pollution at the Edgar Thomson Plant. In 2022, the company paid a $1.5 million fine for air pollution violations at the same plant, underscoring its long-standing environmental issues. The company’s efforts to address these concerns come amidst growing scrutiny over the steel industry’s environmental footprint and the public’s increasing demand for cleaner, more sustainable industrial practices.
In addition to the $1.5 million settlement for residents, U.S. Steel has been under pressure to improve its operations in the face of increased regulatory scrutiny. The plant’s emissions have been a persistent concern for both local environmental groups and regulatory bodies, who have called for stricter oversight of steel mills, especially those located near residential areas.
Class Action Lawsuit and Opt-Out Details
The class action lawsuit covers all individuals who lived within one mile of the Edgar Thomson Plant from 2020 onward. Local residents have the opportunity to participate in the settlement by opting into the class action lawsuit. However, those who do not wish to participate or wish to pursue their own legal actions have until March 17, 2025, to opt-out of the settlement.
For those wishing to be included in the settlement, the deadline to sign onto the class action is March 31, 2025. A fairness hearing will take place on April 15, 2025, where the court will review the terms of the settlement and determine whether it is fair and equitable for all parties involved.
Impact of the Settlement on the Community
The settlement provides immediate financial relief to residents impacted by the plant's pollution, offering them compensation for the discomfort and health issues they may have experienced due to the plant’s emissions. However, the long-term impact on the community will depend largely on the success of the environmental improvement projects that U.S. Steel has pledged to implement. The real test will be whether these measures significantly reduce the harmful air pollution that residents have suffered from and restore the community’s quality of life.
Key Takeaways:
• U.S. Steel has agreed to a $1.5 million settlement over air pollution claims from residents living near its Edgar Thomson Plant in Braddock, Pennsylvania.
• The lawsuit stems from allegations of noxious odors and fugitive dust that negatively impacted residents’ health and their ability to enjoy their property.
• The settlement covers 3,700 households living within one mile of the plant, with compensation to be provided to affected residents.
• The company has denied the allegations but has committed to spending $4.5 million on Environmental Improvement Projects at the plant to address pollution issues.
• U.S. Steel paid a $1.5 million fine in 2022 for air pollution violations at the same plant.
• Residents have until March 17, 2025, to opt out of the class action lawsuit, with the final date for inclusion being March 31, 2025.
• A fairness hearing on the settlement will take place on April 15, 2025 to determine the settlement's fairness and equity.
