Site Assessment and Regulatory Strategy Development
Former Chemical Company
City of Boston
Challenges:
A former chemical company located on the banks of the Neponset River and owned by the City of Boston as a result of foreclosure had a number of complex environmental issues related to chlorinated solvents, metals, petroleum products and PCBs. Impact was evident in both the upland areas and nearby river sediments. The City needed to address the site’s complex environmental issues as well as address residents’ concerns about the potential hazards posed by the site.
Solutions:
ES&M completed an initial site assessment under contract to MassDEP, and then later completed a Phase II assessment for the City of Boston. A Conceptual Site Model was prepared to explain the complex hydrogeological relationship between shallow groundwater, bedrock groundwater and the river. The CSM also explained a unique co-solvent effect, whereby PCBs were dissolving in chlorinated solvents and becoming soluble in groundwater. While researching other possible sources of PCBs, ES&M found a federally-subsidized study of the river that documented an up-stream sources of PCBs. ES&M also prepared a Public Involvement Plan (PIP) and guided the project's public involvement activities. The plan and our participation in public meetings enhanced communications with concerned citizens.
A former chemical company located on the banks of the Neponset River and owned by the City of Boston as a result of foreclosure had a number of complex environmental issues related to chlorinated solvents, metals, petroleum products and PCBs. Impact was evident in both the upland areas and nearby river sediments. The City needed to address the site’s complex environmental issues as well as address residents’ concerns about the potential hazards posed by the site.
Solutions:
ES&M completed an initial site assessment under contract to MassDEP, and then later completed a Phase II assessment for the City of Boston. A Conceptual Site Model was prepared to explain the complex hydrogeological relationship between shallow groundwater, bedrock groundwater and the river. The CSM also explained a unique co-solvent effect, whereby PCBs were dissolving in chlorinated solvents and becoming soluble in groundwater. While researching other possible sources of PCBs, ES&M found a federally-subsidized study of the river that documented an up-stream sources of PCBs. ES&M also prepared a Public Involvement Plan (PIP) and guided the project's public involvement activities. The plan and our participation in public meetings enhanced communications with concerned citizens.
Scope of Work
- MCP Regulatory Strategy Development
- Phase I Initial Site Characterization
- Phase II Comprehensive Site Assessment
- Phase III Remedy Evaluation
- Phase IV Remedy Implementation
- Temporary Solution for Areas 1(residence) and 3 (upland culvert)
- Permanent Solution for Area 2 (pond)