Contaminants of concern were heavy metals identified in landscape areas throughout the campus. These impacted soils were imported to the site for a landscaping remodeling in the late 1990s. For this project, the client opted for a selective remediation approach. This allowed for a cost-efficient and responsible method of ensuring the health and safety of students and other campus occupants. The selective remediation approach necessitated careful planning and use of equipment. There were significant obstacles in many remediation areas, including underground utilities and campus areas not intended to be disturbed.
RW Collins’ skilled equipment operators, laborers, and supervisors ensured minimal disturbance of the existing land. Contaminated soil was carefully removed from parking lot islands, building exterior landscaping, and grass fields. Many of the excavation areas contained utilities that had to remain intact and required careful hand digging.
The site’s location in a bustling urban setting required careful planning and traffic control to minimize disturbance to local businesses and residents. Once remediation objectives were complete, landscape restoration for all greenspaces, shrubs, and trees was completed. RW Collins completed all tasks from excavation to finished landscaping on time, within budget, and safely without incident.
Project Facts
- Three-month project
- 2-3 crews working simultaneously in different excavation areas
- Equipment utilized included CAT 328, 315, 308, & 304 excavators, 906 & 938 loaders, 259 & 287 skid steers, vibratory smooth & sheepsfoot drum rollers, remote control operated sheepsfoot roller
- Over 5,000 tons contaminated soil excavated, hauled & disposed of at subtitle “D” landfill
- Two underground storage tanks removed
- Over 12,000 SY of new grass seeding in remediated areas
- New shrubs, grass, trees, and river rock imported for landscaping restoration
- Zero disturbance to campus activities
