SYRACUSE, N.Y. -- The first phase of clean up is scheduled to begin this month at the former manufactured gas plant site on Hiawatha Boulevard.

While the plant was operating between 1924 and 1958 coal tar, a byproduct from the production of gas seeped into the ground, contaminating the area. Contractors will now be working to solidify soil in a 0.5 acre area and then installing a clean soil cover to ensure that coal tar and other chemicals are contained.

The project is expected to be substantially completed by the end of July.