Elon Musk’s Boring Company faces new tunneling violation in Austin

(UI) — Elon Musk's tunneling enterprise, The Boring Company, has been flagged with another violation by the Texas Commission on Environmental Equality (TCEQ).

The complaint, lodged by Bastrop resident Chap Ambrose, alleges that The Boring Company initiated tunneling at the Gigafactory in Austin without the necessary permits. Ambrose, who has previously voiced concerns about the company's operations, expressed skepticism about their ability to manage public infrastructure projects effectively.

"If they can't do the basics right, I think they're going to have an uphill battle," Ambrose told KVUE.

In April, TCEQ inspected the site, where they found that grout and soil stabilization silos had been installed prior to obtaining authorization from the TCEQ Air Permits Division. This inspection report was shared with KVUE, detailing the observed violations and the subsequent request for proper documentation.

Responding to inquiries, a TCEQ spokesperson confirmed the investigation and noted that the Boring Company had constructed facilities emitting air contaminants without prior authorization. However, the company submitted an application for the portable soil stabilization plant, which TCEQ approved on June 12, 2024, resolving the issue before the official Notice of Violation was issued on June 28, 2024.

Despite this resolution, Ambrose remains vigilant and critical, urging continued state oversight of the company's compliance with regulations. " We continue to see repeat issues," he told KVUE. " I just don't trust this company, and this leadership team to get it done safely."

This recent violation follows a fine of $11,876 imposed on The Boring Company last month related to construction activities.

Attempts to reach The Boring Company for comments were unsuccessful at the time of publication, according to KVUE.

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