Sub-slab gas test finds volatile compounds at 935 High Street but levels below human-health screening thresholds, staff says

City staff reported to the Economic Development Authority on Tuesday that testing at 935 High Street found petroleum-related and chlorinated volatile organic compounds (VOCs) but that concentrations did not exceed human-health screening levels used for redevelopment decisions.

A consultant performed a sub-slab soil gas investigation after a Sanborn map and ground-penetrating radar suggested a possible former underground storage tank at the site. Staff said the subsurface testing detected VOCs consistent with petroleum but that “the levels detected did not represent evidence of a significant release” and did not exceed screening levels for future human health risk.

Why it matters: the investigation reduced a material uncertainty tied to environmental contamination that could have impeded acquisition or redevelopment. Staff said the findings support moving forward with closing on the property and expect closing to occur no later than early August; the seller was notified and the contract’s August 24 expiration date remains a milestone for closing.

Meeting notes and next steps: staff said they will proceed with closing activities and follow required environmental reporting and any remediation obligations should future testing identify issues. No remediation plan or cost was presented at the meeting because the consultant’s findings so far indicated risks below screening thresholds.

Ending: Staff described the test results as “good news” and said closing work is in progress.