Future Grand Traverse Greenway Trail Environmental Assessment -Phase I & II ESA
Scope of Work :
ETC supported the City of Flint’s redevelopment of a former railroad corridor into the Future Grand Traverse Greenway Trail, a critical segment of Michigan’s statewide Iron Belle Trail network. The project involved four contiguous parcels along a former CSX rail corridor extending approximately four miles through the city.
Due to the site’s long history as an active railroad corridor, environmental review requirements included a Part 58 Environmental Review that was elevated to a full Environmental Assessment, along with Phase I and Phase II Environmental Site Assessments (ESAs). The work was completed to support property acquisition, funding eligibility, and long-term redevelopment planning.
ETC's Role :
ETC conducted comprehensive environmental due diligence to evaluate potential contamination associated with historic railroad operations dating back to the mid-19th century.
Key services included:
- Completion of a Part 58 Environmental Review and Environmental Assessment
- Phase I ESA for four contiguous parcels, including review of historical records, prior Baseline Environmental Assessments, and surrounding environmental conditions
- Phase II ESA soil sampling along the corridor to evaluate contaminants commonly associated with railroad infrastructure, including polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), arsenic, and lead
- Coordination with CSX Transportation to obtain historical incident data and property use information
- Collaboration with state agencies to ensure regulatory alignment and funding eligibility
The environmental investigations were designed to support the transformation of the abandoned rail corridor into a public recreational trail while addressing potential legacy impacts from historical use.
Results and Impact :
ETC’s work provided the City of Flint with the environmental documentation needed to move forward with acquisition and redevelopment of the corridor as part of the Future Grand Traverse Greenway Trail.
The completed assessments supported compliance with federal and state requirements and helped secure HUD and non-HUD funding under the Choice Neighborhood Initiative. The project contributes to the creation of an 18-mile connected trail system linking the Flint River, Genesee Valley Trail, and surrounding community landmarks, enhancing public access, recreation, and regional connectivity.
Client History
ETC has an established history working with the City of Flint on environmental reviews and compliance services. This includes NEPA environmental reviews for properties slated for sale, demolition, or redevelopment, as well as asbestos and lead-based paint inspections and regulatory coordination for municipal projects. ETC continues to support the City in navigating environmental requirements tied to redevelopment and community improvement initiatives.
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