2.1.1 Narrative
An Action Memorandum approving response actions to address the contaminated soil in the residential Eastwick neighborhood was signed July 21, 2016. The RPM conducted several outreach sessions to inform the residents and community groups about the Removal Action. EPA also mailed information to residents of the community. The RPM also gained access from and discussed response actions with residents and property owners to be directly affected by the Removal Action.
The OSC and RPM first convened with ERRS (ER) and START (Weston) contractors on the Site on August 8, 2016 (Mobilization Date). This meeting and subsequent meetings were conducted to assure a proper plan of action and that proper personnel, equipment, and materials could be identified to implement the response action. Between 8/8/2016 and 9/6/2016, the OSC and RPM continued preparation activities inclusive of coordination with residents and contractors and development of air monitoring and other actions to enhance safety in the community during the Removal Action.
2.1.2 Response Actions to Date
ERRS contractors began excavation of residential yards on 9/26/16. Rear and side yards were excavated to a depth of 24 inches below ground surface (bgs). Front yards were excavated to a depth of 6 inches bgs in the vicinity of utilities and 24" where no utilities were present. Brick, concrete, asphalt and other construction and demolition debris (C&D) were commonly found throughout the excavated areas. An area of dark stained soil with a faint odor was identified in the rear yard of several properties at a depth of approximately 18 inches bgs. A sample was collected from this area and analyzed PAHs, PCBs, volatiles and metals. Results from this sample were above Removal Trigger Levels and generally consistent with historic sample results collected during the OU1 PDI, but deeper than the limits of the excavation identified in the scope of the response action.
Excavated areas left open overnight were fenced off. Once targeted excavation depths were achieved, high visibility fencing was placed in the bottom of the excavated area. Approximately 18 inches of clean back fill was placed in lifts and compacted with a vibratory roller. Six inches of topsoil were then placed and graded back to pre-excavation elevations. Four yards were completely excavated and backfilled between 9/26/16 and 9/30/16. Between 10/3/16 and 10/7/16, the remaining 4 properties on the first set of eight rowhomes were also excavated and backfilled in the same manner. A total of approximately 615 cubic yards of contaminated soil was removed from these yards. Approximately 700 cubic yards of clean fill and topsoil were needed to backfill excavated areas due to compaction of the new material. Restored sod, shrubbery, gardens and mulch were installed on 10/6/16 and 10/7/16. Watering of sod and vegetation will be conducted by ERRS for two weeks after installation after which time the maintenance is the responsibility of the property owner.
Excavated soil from yards was placed in the soil staging area on the top of the landfill. Dust suppression activities with garden hoses and water truck were conducted as needed to control dust.
The START contractor conducted air monitoring using Dust Trak units to monitor dust levels upwind and downwind of the work areas. Air monitoring data did not identify any exceedances of Total Dust Action Limits. Daily air monitoring charts are being uploaded to the EPA OSC website. Data from the Dust Trak units is being uploaded in real-time to the the EPA ERT VIPER website. Total Dust Action Limits that are protective for residents and workers have been established in the HASP. One Dust Trak unit experienced malfunctions during the week of 10/3/16 that caused to report incorrect data. This malfunction was resolved by restarting and recalibrating the instrument.
The EPA Remedial Project Manager (RPM) and START contractor met with the property owner representatives and tenants of the next five yards to be addressed. Inventory was taken of all items to be removed prior to excavation. A restoration plan and the expectations for the work to be performed was developed and agreed to by EPA, property owners and tenants. The RPM has explained to the property owners and tenants the process that will be followed during yard excavation and restoration. Although dust suppression will be ongoing, EPA has recommended that all doors and windows remain closed during excavation to minimize any dust entering the homes and to dampen any loud noises. Excavation of these yards will start on 10/10/16.
2.1.3 Enforcement Activities, Identity of Potentially Responsible Parties (PRPs)
Activity related to identification of PRPs is still ongoing.
2.1.4 Progress Metrics
NOTE: contaminated soil is removed from the yards and staged on the Clearview Landfill.
Waste Stream |
Medium |
Quantity |
Manifest # |
Treatment |
Disposal |
Residential Yards |
Soil |
615 cu yds. |
N/A |
N/A |
615 cu yds. |
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