We will pilot the "Triad" program on two sites
Today, determining the level of contamination on a brownfield is a time-consuming process that involves taking multiple soil and groundwater samples, sending them in for analysis, and waiting for the State to respond-with the possibility that additional samples will be required. This back-and-forth can continue indefinitely, causing significant delays.

The Federal Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is now using an alternative approach. Known as "Triad," the approach assembles an on-site team including representatives of the owners and regulators. The scientists who analyze the soil samples work nearby or in an onsite laboratory. Together, the team conducts a comprehensive assessment of the site, reviews lab results, and reaches agreement on findings without long delays. This more extensive investigation means that Triad costs more than current site investigations-but can shave months off the testing and remediation phases. As a result, the EPA has found that Triad can cut testing and remediation costs by 30% or more.

The City and State will each pilot the Triad approach at one site this year. The City site is at Melrose Commons in the Bronx; the State site is the former BCF Oil site in East Williamsburg. Pending the success of these pilots, the City will employ the Triad approach on all major City-sponsored remediation projects; the City will also work with the State to promote the approach on privately-held sites.

Progress (as of 4/22/08):
The first two Triad pilots are underway. Initial soil vapor test results from the Triad pilot project in the Melrose neighborhood of the Bronx indicate that the area has less contamination than anticipated. The Triad team of scientists and engineers from the City, EPA, and NYS DEC will further study three small areas of the site with higher concentrations of solvents and petroleum, and if warranted, will propose a state-supervised cleanup. The second pilot is located on a former petroleum terminal on the English Kill in Brooklyn. For this site, the City has worked with DEC and its consultant to draft a work plan for a remedial investigation, which will be completed in summer 2008.