Mill Basin homeowners announced a multi-million dollar court victory Wednesday against the Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) over a massive oil spill.
A jury awarded more than 24 homeowners a total of $2.8 million. The lawsuit was made public in 1999, but residents complain the MTA knew about the estimated 120,000 gallons of oil in the groundwater since 1992. They say the oil, which spilled from the Flatbush Bus Depot at Utica and Fillmore avenues, led to a foul smell. The plaintiffs argued their homes are devalued and their health is at risk.
MTA officials say they are seriously considering appealing Tuesday?s decision. Earlier suits against the MTA were dismissed.