RICHLAND — The Department of Energy wants to start stabilizing a Hanford tunnel filled with radioactive waste that is at risk of collapse without waiting for more public comments.
The Tri-City Herald reports the department has asked the Washington Department of Ecology if it can proceed with filling the nearly 1,700-foot-long storage tunnel with concrete-like grout in August.
The energy department held a public comment period on the plan but the state has its own 45-day comment period and public meetings starting this month.
Ecology spokesman Randy Bradbury says officials will review the request but plan to continue with their public process.