BF Goodrich Cleanup

Overview

The B.F. Goodrich tire plant in Miami, Oklahoma, operated from 1946 until it closed in 1986. Though it was once the largest employer in the city, the plant left behind a toxic legacy—including friable asbestos, benzene, naphtha, and other industrial chemicals. LEAD Agency has worked for years to document the dangers, support residents, and pressure both the EPA and the plant’s corporate successor, Michelin North America, to act.

Today, the site remains a powerful reminder of environmental injustice in Oklahoma—and the importance of sustained community organizing.

Key Contamination Issues

• Asbestos: Crumbling debris piles and damaged buildings contained friable asbestos, which can become airborne and pose severe health risks to nearby residents and trespassers.

• Benzene and Naphtha: These highly toxic chemicals—both known carcinogens—were stored on-site in tanks, drums, and silos, and were believed to have leaked into the surrounding soil and groundwater.

• Mercury & Fluorescent Bulbs: Thousands of fluorescent bulbs containing mercury were discovered on-site and required special handling and disposal.

LEAD’s Role in the Fight

LEAD Agency was instrumental in bringing attention to the contamination, raising public health concerns, and pushing for cleanup. Our efforts included:

• Sounding the alarm about trespassing and airborne asbestos exposure

• Coordinating with the media to raise awareness

• Supporting residents who filed lawsuits against Michelin North America

• Promoting public involvement in EPA cleanup meetings

• Continuing to monitor the site and advocate for full remediation

Community Lawsuit (2017)

In 2017, more than 100 Miami-area residents filed a lawsuit against Michelin and B.F. Goodrich. The suit alleged that the companies knowingly allowed hazardous materials to leak into the soil and groundwater near the Miami Heights subdivision. Residents cited health concerns and violations of environmental safety laws.

EPA Cleanups: Two Phases

Phase 1 (2019):

• Removal of more than 20 asbestos-contaminated debris piles

• Demolition of the oven and powerhouse buildings

• Implementation of air monitoring and safe transport procedures for toxic materials

Phase 2 (2020):

• Focused cleanup of underground pits, basement areas, and the carbon black tank

• Removal and secure packaging of mercury-containing fluorescent lightbulbs

• EPA declared the site cleared by early 2020

What’s Next

Although the EPA has completed its primary cleanup activities, challenges remain. The powerhouse building—deemed structurally sound—was left standing, but still contains asbestos. Trespassing continues to pose a public health risk. LEAD Agency continues to advocate for long-term safety, environmental monitoring, and a vision for restoring the site in a way that benefits the community.