State tries to combat smell from pier work in Mukilteo

MULKITEO, Wash. (AP) — After some Mukilteo residents complained of pier work creating headache-inducing fumes, the Washington Department of Ecology has approved a plan to combat the stench.

The Daily Herald of Everett reports that Washington State Ferries is demolishing a former tank farm pier as part of a project to build a new ferry terminal. During the work, crews have removed toxic creosote-soaked pilings, which have caused the offending odor.

The Department of Ecology on Tuesday approved the ferry system's plan to use a misting machine to wet the pilings in an attempt to reduce the smell.

Neighbors have reported that the smell causes burning in their throat and eyes.