What happens when an ESA Phase I requires a Phase II?

Case Study: Successful Environmental Assessment of Commercial Strip Mall with Surprising Outcome

Client: Commercial Real Estate Investor in the Northeast

Property Location: New England

Project Duration: 2 Months

Introduction:

In the dynamic field of environmental assessment, every project presents a unique challenge and an opportunity to uncover hidden insights. This case study showcases NV5's exceptional expertise in conducting a Phase I and Phase II Environmental Assessment for a commercial strip mall in New England, shedding light on the importance of thorough investigation and the unexpected twists that can arise.

Background:

NV5 was engaged to conduct an Environmental Phase I assessment for a commercial strip mall situated on a property of less than an acre. The property, established in 1972, had served as a focal point for local businesses and the community. However, a critical discovery during the assessment would soon change the course of the project.

Challenges:

The primary challenge was the property's historical use as a commercial space, including a dry cleaner operating on the premises since 1977. Research revealed that a significant percentage of dry cleaners examined by NV5 in the past had caused noteworthy environmental impacts requiring remediation. Moreover, the property's existing groundwater monitoring well had been compromised, and the interior of the dry cleaner exhibited staining, hinting at potential issues beneath the surface.

Phase I Findings:

The Phase I assessment meticulously delved into the property's history, usage, and potential environmental concerns. A key revelation was the presence of the long-standing dry cleaner on the premises. Given NV5's experience, there was a heightened awareness of the possible implications.

Phase II Approach:

Due to the distinct circumstances of the site, NV5 recommended a comprehensive Phase II assessment. This involved:

- Conducting four soil borings to explore the nature of soil contamination.

- Installing four groundwater monitoring wells, including one deep well, to assess groundwater quality.

- Devising a strategy to address the potential for chlorinated solvents to migrate through the water table, prompting the inclusion of a deep monitoring well.

Surprising Outcome:

The Phase II assessment, costing $7,375, yielded an unexpected result. In a remarkable turn of events, this property stood among the 20% of dry cleaners assessed by NV5 that exhibited no significant environmental impact. The soil borings and groundwater monitoring indicated no notable contamination issues, debunking the common assumption that prolonged dry cleaner usage inevitably leads to environmental concerns.

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Impact and Learnings:

This case study emphasizes the importance of meticulous assessment and avoidance of assumptions. NV5's diligent approach and comprehensive Phase II evaluation showcased their commitment to providing accurate insights, regardless of preconceived notions. The successful outcome demonstrates that even in a field where trends and expectations often prevail, the uniqueness of each site requires a tailored investigation.

Conclusion:

NV5's exemplary work on this project underscores the significance of a multi-faceted approach to environmental assessment. The unexpected outcome serves as a reminder that while past trends may offer insights, every property has a distinct story to tell. Through their dedication to thorough investigation and unbiased evaluation, NV5 continues to contribute positively to environmental management and community well-being.