Challenge

Loreto Plaza, a former farmland that was converted into a commercial shopping center, faced significant environmental concerns due to contamination from historical dry cleaning and vehicle maintenance operations dating back to the 1960s. Chlorinated solvent use released tetrachloroethene (PCE) into soil, soil vapor, and groundwater, raising the potential risk of indoor vapor intrusion affecting nearby residents and commercial tenants. The client sought a solution to mitigate health risks, resolve soil and groundwater impacts, and address potential legal liabilities.

Solutions

Geo-Logic Associates applied its extensive environmental consulting expertise to investigate the site, conducting a comprehensive vapor intrusion risk assessment, remedial investigation (RI), and engineering feasibility study (FS). In accordance with California Environmental Protection Agency (CalEPA) guidance, we assessed the potential for PCE volatilizing from groundwater and impacting surrounding properties. Our team completed site-specific modeling, implemented a public participation program, and installed subsurface vapor monitoring probes and conducted detailed soil testing to evaluate vapor intrusion risks and volatile organic compound (VOC) concentrations. We also worked with the Regional Water Quality Control Board (RWQCB) to develop a long-term plan for remediation.

Results

GLA’s expertise in groundwater and vapor intrusion management provided critical insights that reduced the client’s legal and environmental risks. Our work led to the successful evaluation and management of the groundwater VOC plume and established a path for long-term site cleanup.

I have worked with many contamination ‘experts’ over the years, specifically since 1985 when I made it a predominant niche in my law practice. [Former wholly owned subsidiary] DBS&A is the best of them: prompt, diligent, accurate, and above all, absolutely up to date in every detail with respect to methodology, cost benefit analysis, and the meaning and effect of the ever changing regulatory guidelines set by the State of California and the federal government—and that says a lot.”

Mr. John DeLoreto, Attorney at Law