Managing Environmental Risk for Today’s Developments

Environmental risk has evolved considerably over time along with the industry, markets and buildings we create.

Before states established voluntary cleanup programs in the early 90s, most developers focused on undeveloped or “green” sites to minimize uncertainty with the land, liability and costs associated with previous contamination.

As urban cores continue to grow at a rapid pace, many of the most desirable sites to develop are in or near cities, which are often contaminated or “brownfield” lots. Today, federal and state liability protections are utilized to support development of this land. Although these sites present complexities, we are able to manage the risks and ultimately deliver projects in prime locations to meet the demand for revitalization of cities across the country.

With environmental risk expertise in house, we stay knowledgeable, ensure projects run smoothly and minimize environmental liability for clients and future owners.

For example, as we began due diligence on OXBŌ in Saint Paul, Minn., our team evaluated the site’s 130-year history that included numerous commercial and industrial users. We effectively addressed many pollution conditions before construction began by investigating the site for contaminants; developing a remedial action plan, which was approved by the state voluntary cleanup program; and managing the safe removal of asbestos prior to demolition.

Managing environmental cleanup requires streamlined coordination between developers, construction project managers and environmental consultants to ensure projects are accurately evaluated and efficiently remediated. This reduces the likelihood of delayed timelines and increased costs. By integrating the management of environmental risk into our overall approach, we deliver maximum client benefits through a seamless experience.

Completed in March 2017, Oxbo was a Minnesota Brownfields ReScape Awards Finalist for Economic Impact.

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