Lawsuit filed against developers over environmental concerns

The Chesapeake Bay Foundation and several local residents have filed a lawsuit against developers in Middle River, Maryland. They claim that the developers are not following rules for controlling sediment and erosion at a 53-acre site that once housed an aircraft plant. The lawsuit was filed on March 20 in Baltimore County Circuit Court. Residents worry that the lack of proper controls could damage nearby communities and waterways. They are particularly concerned about environmental health, public safety, and potential hazardous material releases. Many residents live in trailer parks and neighborhoods affected by the industrial history of the area, with about 30% living below the federal poverty line. The site is slated for a new 205,000-square-foot Walmart. Baltimore County Councilman David Marks noted that there have been complaints about dust and other issues at the site over the past three years. However, he added that the Chesapeake Bay Foundation had not reached out to him about these concerns. The former Martin Aircraft plant has a history of toxic use, including substances known as PFAS. Kathleen Gagnon, an attorney for the Chesapeake Bay Foundation, emphasized that the developer's plans do not seem to address potential contamination risks near local residents and waterways. Developers have previously proposed various uses for the land, but the Walmart project has faced opposition in the past. In 2024, the county issued permits for the development, which residents and the foundation believe do not adequately protect local water quality. The lawsuit seeks to halt the development until the environmental concerns are addressed.