Plans For Western Middle School Field Remediation Submitted To P&Z

GREENWICH, CT — Remediation for Western Middle School's athletic fields is getting closer to becoming a reality, as the Greenwich Board of Education has submitted a site plan application to the Greenwich Planning & Zoning Commission.

The project involves the remediation/removal of impacted fill material beneath the existing athletic fields and the construction of new synthetic turf athletic fields with associated field, site and drainage improvements.

When the school was constructed in the 1950s, contaminated fill material was imported to the site to build athletic fields.

The fields have remain closed since September 2016 when the soil contaminants were found.

Contaminants of concern found at concentrations above regulatory criteria in the soil include polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), volatile organic compounds, semi-volatile organic compounds, metals and pesticides.

For over a half-decade, students have been bused across town to use other fields, while officials participated in hearings and meetings, and performed tests to find solutions.

According to the project narrative submitted to P&Z from Langan Engineering and Environmental Services, "the proposed remediation includes the excavation and proper off-site disposal of impacted historic fill, the construction of Engineered Controls (ECs) to isolate deeper remaining impacted fill at the athletic fields, and the placement of an Environmental Use Restriction on the property to prohibit actions that would disturb the ECs or expose remaining impacted fill material."

As a result of the soil remediation, some existing trees and vegetation surrounding the fields will be required to be removed, Langan said. The company is working with the Greenwich tree warden to perform an existing tree survey as well as develop a planting restoration plan.

Standard erosion and sedimentation controls are also being proposed, Langan said.

"The proposed remediation strategy was chosen in consultation with CTDEEP and USEPA due to its level of protection of human health and the environment, it compliance with regulations, long and short term effectiveness, reduction of toxicity, ability to implement, and it cost effectiveness relative to other potential alternatives," Langan said.

In his budget presentation in January, First Selectman Fred Camillo highlighted the importance of this project. He included $10 million for the project in his proposed spending plan.

"Two whole classes went through their three years there having to be bussed around the town, never being able to play on their home field," Camillo said during his presentation. "It's critical we get those kids back onto the field and help the rest of the town by adding more playing services."

A public hearing on the proposed Remedial Action Plan was also held in January, and the community showed up to voice support for the long-awaited project.

WMS 8th grader Blake Natale said the fields were closed when he began 2nd grade. He will soon be one of 1,200 students who have attended the school and not been able to use the fields.

"I realize it is very important for all of our safety that the environmental remediation process is thoughtful, deliberately done and includes rounds of testing. However, please note that every year is another year in the life of children in this town who wish to be able to enjoy access to the fields," Natale said. "I strongly urge the state and the town to act without further delay on this proposed plan on field remediation."

Camillo said in January a bid for remediation is expected to go out by May, and a contract is anticipated to be secured by June, at which point remediation can begin.

The application has not yet been scheduled to go before the Greenwich Planning & Zoning Commission.