Stone Soap Brownfield Environmental Site Assessments (Phase I & II)

Scope of Work :

ETC partnered with the Detroit Brownfield Redevelopment Authority (DBRA) to support environmental due diligence and redevelopment planning at the historic Stone Soap industrial property in Detroit. This project involved comprehensive assessment activities across multiple adjoining parcels, including Phase I and Phase II Environmental Site Assessments, geophysical surveys, drilling and sampling, and hazardous building material surveys. The primary goal was to evaluate potential impacts from historical industrial operations, identify Recognized Environmental Concerns, and provide DBRA with the documentation and data necessary to support future redevelopment efforts under Brownfield regulations.

ETC's Role :

ETC conducted a Phase I ESA in accordance with ASTM E1527-13 and CERCLA All Appropriate Inquiries, identifying several Recognized Environmental Concerns associated with former industrial operations, aboveground and underground storage tanks, sump features, and historical infrastructure such as elevator shafts. Based on these findings, ETC recommended geophysical surveys and intrusive subsurface investigation.

During the Phase II ESA, ETC performed ground-penetrating radar (GPR) surveys, completed Geoprobe soil borings, and collected soil samples to depths of 15–25 feet in accordance with MDEQ Part 201 Sampling Strategies. The investigation confirmed the presence of a buried UST within the building interior and identified contaminant concentrations exceeding state screening criteria, classifying the property as a “facility.”

Although a Baseline Environmental Assessment (BEA) was not strictly required for DBRA as a Local Unit of Government, ETC prepared a BEA at the owner’s request to support future liability protections. Additional services included asbestos, lead, and cadmium paint sampling across multiple structures to document hazardous building materials prior to redevelopment and demolition planning.

Results and Impact :

ETC’s detailed environmental assessments provided DBRA with the critical information required to move the Stone Soap redevelopment process forward. By identifying contamination concerns, documenting site conditions, and preparing due diligence documentation—including the BEA—ETC helped DBRA reduce redevelopment risk and plan next steps with confidence. The hazardous materials surveys further support safe demolition planning and regulatory compliance. ETC’s long-standing partnership with DBRA continues to strengthen Detroit’s Brownfield revitalization efforts and ensure environmentally responsible redevelopment across the city.

ETC has partnered with the Detroit Brownfield Redevelopment Authority for more than eight years. As one of four select industrial hygiene firms supporting DBRA’s demolition and redevelopment program, ETC provides ongoing environmental assessments and hazardous materials surveys that keep the city’s Brownfield projects progressing safely and efficiently.

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