Lake Storey is closed to all types of water access, including boating, swimming, and wading, to allow space for remediation of the diesel fuel leak on February 8, 2024. The Illinois Department of Central Management Services is the source of the original leak, and they have hired a remediation contractor to work in conjunction with the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency (IEPA) to clean up the fuel leak thoroughly. The Galesburg Fire Department responded to the fuel leak near 3150 Log City Trail and used large absorbent booms to contain the spill. The closure is intended to provide space for clean-up efforts and prevent residents and their pets from exposure to potential water contamination.
Signage will be posted at lake access points and parking areas to notify park patrons that water access at Lake Storey Park is currently closed. The closure is anticipated to be temporary, and the City of Galesburg will issue further information once the lake is again open for water access.
The Galesburg Fire Department assisted the State of Illinois and the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency with an immediate hazard mitigation response to minimize impacts. The Illinois Department of Central Management Services will manage the ongoing mitigation process in correspondence with the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency. Any updates or information regarding the diesel fuel leak or the status of remediation efforts will be issued by the Illinois Department of Central Management Services. The City will continue to take all necessary precautions to ensure public safety until the remediation is complete.
