Greenpoint residents say, BP and others slow to clean 150-year old oil spill

In Greenpoint, an underground oil spil caused by generations of activity by oil companies has residents concerned over potential health concerns, writes Allan Chernoff for CNN.

The oil is trapped underneath the ground, across more than 50 acres of residential and industrial properties. In some parts of the neighborhood, it goes as deep as 50 feet. But in other areas, the crude layer of petroleum is but three feet beneath the surface.

Although they are not chiefly responsible, BP, ExxonMobil and Chevron are charged with cleaning up the mess that they have inherited. Residents say the three companies have not worked quickly enough, and that the 150-year old spill has caused definite effects in neighborhood health.