A century-old metal foundry will close this month, bringing relief to residents after years of pollution concerns. Smith Foundry announced it will cease all operations by August 15. This decision follows a settlement with the EPA and an $80,000 fine.
Minneapolis, MN -- On January 11, 2024, community members gathered to discuss the future of the Smith Foundry in Minneapolis’ East Phillips neighborhood. The iron-casting facility has been found to violate health regulations, thereby likely threatening the well-being of people living nearby. In November, residents had called for the closure of the foundry after discovering records from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) indicating that the company had been exceeding Minnesota emission limits of particulate matter since 2018 — without notifying the state.
