SWPA NEPA Analysis

Tectonic performed general NEPA analysis tasks commonly associated with the level of analysis commensurate with and prior to the generation of a Categorical Exclusion associated with small to moderate scale operations and maintenance projects associated with high-voltage transmission systems. This included specialized surveys and/or monitoring.

The NEPA review included classification of the required level of review along with preparation of an evaluation of existing and future conditions associated with the proposed construction activities related to geology and soils, air quality, water quality, floodplains, wetlands, vegetation and wildlife, historic and cultural resources, and other applicable topics. Upon final review and conclusions of consultations as needed, the projects were documented and submitted for SWPA’s review utilizing the SWPA’s Categorical Determination, Categorical Justification and NEPA Checklist Form (SWPA F 450.4).

Section 106 Consultation letters were prepared and submitted to tribes, SHPO and other resource agencies and sometimes required the initiation of archeological surveys or monitoring special studies, analysis, assessments or permits applications identified after the preliminary review or consultation with the tribes, SHPOs, US Fish and Wildlife office, or other agencies. Tectonic provided archeological surveys and monitoring, and/or surveys or monitoring associated with project impacts regarding Section 7 Endangered Species Act (ESA) and federally listed Threatened or Endangered Species on an as-needed basis.

Tectonic provided archeological monitoring and reporting services in order to mitigate the Adverse Effect of the demolition and related ground-disturbing activities to be conducted at multiple project areas within the Jamaica Bay and Sandy Hook Units of the Gateway National Recreation Area (GATE JABA and GATE SAHO), located in Queens County, New York and Monmouth County, New Jersey. Several structures within the project areas were determined eligible for the National Register of Historic Places (NRHP) as contributing structures to their respective historic districts. In each instance, monitoring requirements were negotiated as part of Memoranda of Agreement (MOAs) with the New York or New Jersey State Historic Preservation Offices (SHPO).

Reason for Project: Mitigation of adverse impacts related to demolition and relocation of National Register listed historic properties affected by Hurricane Sandy flooding.

Project Challenges: An unpredictable construction schedule coupled with a long performance period requiring a nimble and proactive team approach.

Tectonic prepared Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plans (SWPPP) and performed weekly construction compliance inspections for projects associated with United States Military installations in New York State. Documentation and protocols were prepared in accordance with NYSDEC GP 0-08-001 and GP 0-10-001 requirements. Services included SWPPP preparation, staged erosion and sediment control design, slope stability analysis, permit preparation, agency coordination, inspection, and permit closeout.

Representative projects include:

• Saugerties Army Reserve Center – The development of a main training building, an organization maintenance facility building, an unheated storage enclosure, parking lots, and other associated facilities on this 15-acre property along the NY State Thruway in Ulster County.

• West Point Department of Logistics Motor Pool – The development of a 41.7-acre site adjacent to a protected surface water body. The project sought and received a waiver from the NYSDEC to disturb more than 5 acres at one time. During large-scale earthmoving operations, additional erosion control measures were employed and inspections were provided twice weekly. Improvements included a 45,000 square foot vehicle maintenance building, a 12,000 square foot administration building, a wastewater treatment plant, an electrical substation, vehicle storage lots, and associated parking, roadways, utilities, embankments, retaining walls, lighting, and landscaping.

Tectonic provided geotechnical engineering and site surveying services for this new 48,000 SF addition to a 1980’s, 89,000 SF, multi-story hospital and medical care clinic.

Geotechnical analysis was performed in accordance with U.S. Department of Defense Unified Facilities Criteria as well as site-specific Fort Drum Installation Design Guide documents for structural design. Tectonic performed a subsurface investigation including borings and test pits and prepared a geotechnical engineering report detailing the methods of investigation.

The $28 million addition supported an increase in the number of patients from about 36,000 to 43,000 soldiers, family members and retirees.

Tectonic provided geotechnical engineering and environmental services for this new $17 million, 46,000 SF, LEED Silver, multi-building facility used for shipping and distribution within the arsenal.

Geotechnical investigation included subsurface exploration and test borings. Environmental services included screening using a photo-ionization detector and soil sampling. Tectonic’s geotechnical engineering analysis and report informed the design of the facility’s foundation.

Sited next to wetlands, delineations were used to mitigate any disturbance in the wetlands transition area.