Toxins Still Higher than Expected in Southeast Portland

The presence of hexavalent chromium in the air in Southeast Portland continues to be a concern for state officials.

In their weekly update, they say the persistence of increased hexavalent chromium readings over time remains a concern to the Oregon Department of Environmental Quality and Oregon Health Authority.

The state said they are still trying to figure out the source of the hexavalent chromium, which has been found near Bullseye Glass.

The glass company has stopped using chromium in its production process.

State officials are looking at several possible sources for the presence of the metal including a cement plant, rail yard, trucking facility and two chrome-plating facilities.

They have visited, or are planning visits to these sites in the coming days. They also are studying wind data and are planning to move air monitors to these areas in an attempt to "triangulate" the source.

Officials did say that there was some positive news - the presence of Selenium, which had increased after Bullseye started using more of it, is back down.