US spent $33.1 million relocating town after dioxin contamination

The United States government spent $33.1 million to permanently relocate the residents of Times Beach following the discovery of severe dioxin contamination. The toxic substance had been applied to local dirt roads for dust control purposes during the 1970s.

The situation for the community became critical due to the contamination, a crisis that was further compounded and escalated by a devastating flood that occurred in 1982, which significantly heightened residents' concerns regarding the hazardous exposure.