Roux Associates conducted a multi-phased Remedial Investigation/Feasibility Study (RI/FS), as well as interim remedial measures (IRMs) to address soil, groundwater, and sewer contamination, at a 100+ acre rail yard in New York City. To expedite remedial efforts, thus facilitating redevelopment activities including the construction of a high-speed rail facility, the rail yard was divided into operable units with NYSDEC's concurrence. By implementing a focused investigation, Roux was able to convince NYSDEC that downgradient, off-site detections of separate-phase product were not related to the site's separate-phase product plume of PCB-contaminated diesel fuel. It was also demonstrated that the plume had reached steady-state conditions and therefore posed no threat of off-site migration. As a result, expenses associated with treatment system construction, prolonged operation and maintenance (O&M), sewer use fees, and incineration of PCB contaminated oil were avoided.

Based on the determination of background concentrations of metals, a health-based risk assessment, and a cost-benefit analysis for a series of potential clean-up levels, the compounds of concern at the site were limited to PCBs, cPAHs, and lead. The cost-benefit analysis for PCBs alone determined an estimated cost savings of approximately $88,000,000. In addition, Roux has recommended that groundwater be removed from the remedial plan at the site due to existing degradation of the aquifer from industrialization and from salt-water intrusion, the technical impracticability of a pump-and-treat system, minimal contribution of contaminants from the site and the tendency of remaining low-level contamination to naturally attenuate.