Health groups oppose coal fired plant

NORFOLK, Va. (WAVY) - A proposed power plant in Surry County is generating controversy in Hampton Roads.

Three health organizations, The American Lung Association, the Virginia Asthma Coalition, and the Consortium for Infant and Child Health are joining forces to fight what could become one of the largest coal fired plants in the country.

Old Dominion Electric Cooperative (ODEC) wants to build the plant in Surry County, and Virginia Beach is down wind.

The health groups warn the impact on Hampton Roads' health and economy could devastating for people like 4-year-old Karina Balsley who thrives in a world of make believe.

"I want lots and lots and lots and lots of pizza," Balsley whispered into her plastic phone.

But it's the real world possibility of a coal fired power plant her mom fears could literally take the wind from her sails.

"If that triggers her Asthma, the more episodes she has and the more medication she has to use, that's doing permanent damage to her lungs," said Cher Balsley.

The site where ODEC wants to build is an hour drive from Karina's home in Hampton Roads but health groups warn there are a number of ways she and others could suffer from its pollutants.

"Including increased risk of asthma attacks, emphysema, infant mortality, lung cancer, heart disease and strokes," said Kimberly Williams, from the American Lung Association.

They say the air quality in Hampton Roads is already bad enough.

"What we know about Hampton Roads is this is a tough place to breath," said Amy Paulson, Director of the Consortium for Infant and Child Health at EVMS.

According to the Department of Environmental Quality, the air sometimes fails to meet EPA standards, especially on hot summer days, and that is because of ozone.

Coal fired power plants are one of the major sources of pollutants that contribute to ozone.

"It would seem to us it would be more prudent for any organization concerned about air quality to work to address these existing issues than working to oppose a proposed power station that is still in the planning stages," said ODEC spokesman Jeb Hockman.

Hockman added, ODEC could not open without meeting government air standards and the earliest that could happen is 2020. Still, the health groups fear if they wait it will be too late.

"I grew up here and I'm raising my family here but this proposed plant may force me to leave Hampton Roads, my home, for the sake of my family's well being," a tearful Balsley said.

The health groups are calling on others to sign onto their joint statement in opposition to the coal plant. Go to The American Lung Association and then click on the picture that says "Take Action" to sign. Click ODEC to get more information on the proposed plant.