In
addition to property clean-up, a lead testing program is also proposed
at the site. Chicago leads the nation in the number of children
identified with lead poisoning. Childhood lead poisoning is linked to
learning disabilities, hyperactivity, speech and behavioral disorders,
reduced intelligence and can lead to long-term health and socialization
problems.
Englewood and West Englewood rank first and third, respectively, in the
Chicago area. Forty two percent of the community’s housing units are
considered a high risk for lead paint hazards. The numbers may be even
greater since statistics are based on less than half of the total
population of children being tested in these communities, despite the
fact that state law mandates testing for all children under the age of
six.