Engine 70 Fire Station
Phase II Environmental Site Assessment

Previous Phase I ESAs identified the historic uses as a blacksmith shop, filling stations, automobile repair shops, and a used ar dealership as recognized environmental conditions (RECs) associated with the site. Phase II ESAs were recommended to investigate the RECs.

The purpose of the Phase II ESAs was to determine if the RECs identified in the Phase I ESAs had impacted the soil at the site. The Phase II ESAs consisted of performing soil borings, collecting soil samples from areas of potential contamination, and analyzing soil samples for the appropriate parameters to address the RECs and characterize the site. Four individual Phase II ESAs were performed as the parcels were acquired by the City. The analytical results were compared to the Tier 1 soil remediation objectives (SROs) for residential properties and the construction worker scenario.

The Phase II ESAs results indicated the presence of concentrations of several constituents of concern exceeding the most stringent Tier 1 SROs for residential properties and/or the construction worker scenario. Carnow Conibear recommended that site remediation work be incorporated into the site redevelopment design plans and specifications in order to manage impacted soil, prevent site cross-contamination, and minimize the soil volume which may require removal and disposal during the site construction activities. It was also recommended that soils at the site be characterized and properly disposed at an approved, permitted landfill (if off-site removal is required as part of future construction activities) and that a site-specific safety plan be prepared to protect construction workers during the excavation activities that require handling of impacted soils above the Tier 1 SROs for construction workers. This project was funded by the Public Building Commission of Chicago.