Progress is visible at the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) outpatient clinic and cemetery project in Alameda Point, with steel drums labeled “Non-Hazardous Waste—Pending Analysis” spotted on the old airfield. The VA is conducting extensive soil and groundwater testing, specifically targeting PFAS, a group of chemicals, before commencing construction.
In 2022, the VA’s concern about PFAS heightened when the Navy addressed PFAS at Alameda Point. This led to a pause in construction work on the new VA wetlands. The VA is now evaluating its next steps following recent EPA regulatory developments regarding PFAS.
On February 28, 2024, the VA received a Marsh Crust Permit from the City, allowing them to bore into the ground at 91 locations to address historical industrial waste in the area. The VA is awaiting the results of the site study to determine construction waste management requirements and potential mitigation measures for health and environmental risks.
Soil and groundwater samples were collected from various project areas, including the outpatient clinic, columbarium cemetery, wetland, and City streets leading to the property. The VA’s funding for the project is managed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) Sacramento District, which took over construction management to address cost concerns.
The VA’s testing involved multiple samples from different locations, with results expected later this year. Contractors have the opportunity to bid on the project, listed as one of the USACE’s “Mega Projects.” The VA project’s cost has increased significantly since its initial budget allocation in 2011.
Contributing writer Richard Bangert reports on environmental issues at Alameda Point, highlighting the ongoing testing and construction efforts. The VA’s commitment to addressing PFAS concerns and ensuring regulatory compliance underscores the importance of environmental stewardship in large-scale projects.
As the VA project progresses, the focus on PFAS testing underscores the increasing awareness and regulatory scrutiny surrounding environmental contaminants. The collaboration between the VA, USACE, and contractors reflects a concerted effort to address health and environmental risks while advancing construction at Alameda Point.
The VA’s meticulous approach to testing and mitigation measures sets a precedent for future development projects, emphasizing the importance of environmental assessments and regulatory compliance in safeguarding public health and the environment.
With the VA’s project at Alameda Point serving as a model for environmental due diligence, stakeholders are hopeful that the outcome will not only enhance the local infrastructure but also set a standard for sustainable development practices in the region.
As construction progresses, the VA’s proactive measures to address PFAS contamination demonstrate a commitment to environmental responsibility and public health. The results of the ongoing testing will be crucial in informing decision-making and ensuring the project’s compliance with environmental regulations.
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