This article published in Contractor discusses brownfield construction and water contamination and how technologies and sound planning can mitigate risks from chemical contamination—including PFAS.

Article highlights:

• Conducting a Phase I Environmental Site Assessment (ESA) to practice due diligence and understand the property’s history
• Safe, economical, and effective means to address vapor intrusion risk
• If PFAS impacts on groundwater is confirmed act quickly

New construction at vacant, former industrial properties, referred to as brownfields, has increased dramatically over the past decade. Even before the COVID-19 pandemic, the growth of e-commerce was driving a revolution in the new construction of industrial warehouses and last-mile distribution centers, which has only accelerated. Mixed-use residential/commercial redevelopment of brownfields also continues steadily in many areas. Due to the continued need for affordable land in areas accessible to highly populated areas, and fueled by tax incentives, many of these future buildings will be constructed on or near brownfields where chemical releases have occurred. This article provides key tips for developers to mitigate risk of chemical releases, including releases from PFAS.