Reclaiming Waterfront Properties
Langan supports complex projects from coast to coast
Waterfront properties are some of the most desirable real estate sites because they represent sought-after destinations, inviting public open spaces, and natural wildlife habitats—often with water views that stretch for miles. These benefits, however, come with many challenges associated with building on the waterfront. Langan’s waterfront team is experienced in managing complex regulatory requirements that vary from site to site and tailors the services provided to each project’s site-specific risks and challenges, proposed use, development schedules, and milestones.
Waterfront properties are vulnerable to flooding, sea level and groundwater level rise, and the related impacts on businesses, the community, and the environment. Langan helps developers plan for the long-term effects of climate change including sea level rise vulnerability assessments, development siting, green infrastructure solutions, and adaptation planning services. We also use digital solutions to provide clients with hydrogeological conceptual site models, predictive groundwater elevation modeling, and sensitivity analysis to review potential groundwater rise concerns.
Former industrial waterfront properties pose a particularly unique opportunity for revitalization and reuse. These properties often present challenges due to the potential existence of contamination in soil, groundwater, and/or sediment associated with prior industrial use. Naturally occurring environmental conditions, such as the presence of methane, may also be present and require management. Langan’s environmental team guides developers through the management of legacy contamination issues and other environmental conditions, from environmental due diligence, site assessment, characterization, and remediation to vapor and methane mitigation system design for planned structures where these concerns exist.
Additionally, the environmental team works closely with Langan’s site/civil, geotechnical, and waterfront engineers to navigate a range of issues and develop comprehensive solutions for waterfront projects. These issues can include compressible and liquefiable soil vulnerable to settlement and slope failure, inexistent or inadequate infrastructure, and access to public transportation.
From the multi-site Greenpoint Landing project in Brooklyn, New York to Alameda Point and Treasure Island in the San Francisco Bay Area, Langan is playing a vital role in reclaiming waterfronts and developing vibrant, accessible, and resilient spaces from coast to coast.
Christina Rain is based in Langan’s San Francisco office and has over 10 years of experience working on environmental projects throughout California. Her expertise includes reclaiming waterfront properties ranging from various former Navy bases to a former Bayfront landfill.