Cap it Off
Warehouse Foundations Transform Contaminated Sites
Warehouse/distribution center development is one of the best ways to transform an environmentally challenging site into an economic asset. These sites—often former manufacturing facilities that were once key drivers of the local economy—now present various levels of contamination from decades of waste disposal and nearby industrial activities.
Therefore, project teams must take extra precautions to prevent the spread of contaminants and avoid potential health and environmental risks. Enter: capping. This efficient solution places a cover such as clean fill, pavement, or a geomembrane to isolate contaminated material and protect people, wildlife, and the environment.
Capped sites and warehouse development pair perfectly, while bringing numerous benefits to stakeholders. Not only does the redevelopment of underutilized land create additional job opportunities and tax revenue, but also saves crucial time on tasks related to infrastructure and zoning. This method is particularly popular throughout the Rust Belt region. For instance, Langan recently helped transform a former metals manufacturing facility site just outside Downtown Cleveland into a successful e-Commerce fulfillment center.
“Our experienced engineers possess the knowledge and wherewithal necessary to help clients navigate challenges during the due diligence phase and come up with effective design solutions for environmentally compromised sites,” said Chris Westbrook, PE, LEED AP, Associate, Langan. “It’s fulfilling to redevelop sites that have been underutilized into spaces that serve current and future generations in a new way.”