EnviroForensics recently assisted another client in securing a Certificate of Completion and a Covenant Not To Sue from the Indiana Department of Environmental Management (IDEM). The property, located near downtown Indianapolis and surrounded by residential neighborhoods, was acquired by our client in 2017 with the understanding that it required significant environmental remediation. Contaminated with lead and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) from historical motor freight and scrap yard operations, the site presented substantial challenges.
When a previous consultant failed to make progress, EnviroForensics promptly took action for our client. We quickly identified the scope of work necessary to address the contamination and assisted our client in pursing cost recovery for investigation and cleanup from the responsible party.
Our approach was centered on ensuring the property could fulfill its highest potential use, supporting future residential development. We crafted a strategy that met IDEM’s requirements but also addressed the needs of the surrounding community. After accurately assessing the extent of contamination and evaluating the exposure risks at the site and the adjacent properties, we launched the cleanup efforts. This included coordinating the excavation and offsite disposal of over 9,600 tons of shallow lead contaminated soil, installing and operating a Soil Vapor Extraction (SVE) system to remove VOCs from the soil, and executing targeted remedial injections to degrade VOC contaminants in groundwater.
Additionally, we collaborated with IDEM to establish a Long-Term Stewardship plan to protect nearby residents from residual groundwater impacts while the VOC breakdown progresses over time.
EnviroForensics secured the necessary funds for managing this multi-million-dollar environmental liability, allowing for the successful execution of the cleanup and restoration of the property’s value. Our commitment to our client’s success was central to the project, and we are proud to have contributed to transforming what could have been an unusable vacant lot into a property ready for new possibilities. We look forward to seeing the site evolve over the years, knowing we played a crucial role in revitalizing both the land and the surrounding community.
If you’re dealing with environmental issues, EnviroForensics can help. Our team not only manages investigation and cleanup but also helps you find funding to cover remediation costs and legal defense. Contact us today to see how we can help restore your property’s value while protecting your financial interests.
