BROWNFIELD GUIDANCE

A brownfield is when the redevelopment or reuse of a property is complicated by the presence of a hazardous substance, waste, or contaminant. BE3 has a team of environmental professionals experienced in brownfield remediation in advance of economic development. 

Besides being an eyesore, a brownfield can pose a serious threat to human safety and health. Common brownfield sites include the following: gas stations, rail yards, factories, dry cleaners, etc. These properties are either vacant, underutilized, or abandoned all together. As a result of not being cared for, the property becomes environmentally impacted and over time can develop into a brownfield.

BE3 has completed hundreds of successful brownfield projects for municipal and private clients. Affordable housing, market rate residential and mixed-use development, commercial and manufacturing development, solar arrays, and recreational parks are some examples. 

The Brownfield process is complex and requires multiple steps. BE3 has assisted numerous developers throughout the process. Typical tasks include the following:

  • Pre-Brownfield Approval Tasks: Completion of the Phase I and Phase II Environmental Site Assessments (ESAs).
  • Preparation of a Brownfield Remedial Investigation Work Plan (RIWP): This is done in order to receive state agency approval. It provides the “game plan” and extent of procedures required for a property.
  • Completion of the Remedial Investigation: In accordance with the plan and typically involves soil, groundwater, and air sampling and analysis.
  • Completion of a Remedial Investigation / Alternative Analysis Report (RI/AAR): Describes the investigation, provides the results and an interpretation of the nature and extent of contamination.
  • Development of a Remedial Action Work Plan (RAWP): Includes a detailed description of all remedial/construction activities.
  • Provide Remedial Construction Documents: Basic documents for contractor bidding to complete the remediation.
  • Provide Remedial Construction Oversight Services: Documenting and monitoring construction and implementing a community air monitoring program during remedial activities.
  • Preparation of a Site Management Plan (SMP): Done to manage remaining contamination if there is any left at a site.
  • Preparation of a Final Engineering Report (FER):  This describes the details of all site remediation activities and must be stamped by a licensed professional engineer.
  • Ongoing Operation and Maintenance: Managing any remedial measures that are in place after a project is completed.