Approximately 300 environmental investigations are completed by the ESD each year. These investigations can be categorized as Phase I, Phase II or Phase III Environmental Site Assessments. Each of these tasks are described in detail below. The resulting written report discusses the findings and identifies potential environmental concerns associated with the subject site. Phase I ESAs are conducted for all roadway and drainage improvement projects, City facility improvements and most property acquisitions performed by the City.
Documents are prepared for all transportation improvement projects that are federally funded.
These investigations are similar to Phase I ESAs, but are broader in scope. Besides a Phase I type of environmental investigation, NEPA documents also include detailed historical, social, archaeological, water quality, air, noise, vegetation and endangered species impact studies. Phase II Environmental Site Assessments are conducted when a Phase I ESA or another source has identified potential concerns that require further investigation. These investigations are designed to determine the extent of impact to the subject site. Methods of determination include sampling and analysis of surface and subsurface soil and water.