Location: Wilmington, Delaware
Client: Delaware Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control (DNREC)
EA conducted remedial action and demolition consisting of excavation of hexavalent chromium-impacted soil and demolition/removal of six hexavalent-impacted buildings/sheds and concrete for the DNREC at a 2.3-acre former Harper Thiel electroplating facility in Wilmington, Delaware. EA excavated/disposed of approximately 3,700 tons of contaminated soil; 3,100 tons were characteristic hazardous for chromium. EA characterized/segregated/disposed of 650 tons of construction and demolition debris and 19 tons of characteristic hazardous building components. To facilitate the excavation activities, EA performed a structural integrity evaluation of the foundation, given the old rock and mortar foundation. EA developed and implemented a stabilization plan including exposure of the foundation face, parging of the surface, and pouring of concrete reinforcements to allow for excavation within and outside of the building. Additional remedial activities included abatement of asbestos prior to demolition, removal of miscellaneous hazarded materials, removal of a 300-gallon underground storage tank, and treatment of contaminated groundwater. Technologies used include x-ray fluorescence analysis; colorimetric diphenyl carbizide titration tests; and controlled-release, integrated carbon and zero valent iron groundwater treatment. EA conducted a pre-design data gap investigation, risk assessment, feasibility study, and remedial design. Following completion of the remedial work, EA prepared a remediation completion report. EA demonstrated attainment of the remedy and DNREC issued a Certification of Completion of Remedy allowing for redevelopment of the site. As part of the DNREC Brownfields program, the site was redeveloped and currently houses a microbrewery and wood-fired pizza restaurant.
