PETALUMA BROWNFIELDS PROGRAM

A “community-wide” assessment began in 2006 to map publically available records and information. Through the use of a database search, agency files, historical resources and the City GIS system, over 19,000 properties were considered. By applying various criteria such as land use, zoning, location in plan areas, assessed value per square foot, database information, and listings in agency files indicating current or potential prior uses of regulated chemicals, 71 properties were recommended as priorities for further consideration.

The City of Petaluma contacted these 71 property owners to offer grant-funded services. Seven properties were selected to receive a parcel-specific Phase I Environmental Site Assessment. These properties included several small commercial businesses, a non-profit affordable senior housing project, a proposed mixed use site, a former service station, and a public safety building. Each Phase I ESA assessed the property for any Recognized Environmental Concerns based on historical and current use of the property and surrounding properties.

Of the 7 Phase I ESAs conducted, four sites were selected for a subsequent Phase II Environmental Site Assessment. One property owner who had already completed a Phase I was also selected, for a total of 5 Phase II ESA’s. Each Phase II was completed to assess soil and groundwater conditions based on Recognized Environmental Concerns from the corresponding Phase I ESA. Findings from the Phase II ESAs can be used to assist in selling the property, plan for redevelopment and prepare cost estimates.