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Regarding the elevated methane concern, this issue lies with one monitoring point located <br />on the adjacent CSI parcel, vent VM-5A (see attached map). Vent VM-5 existed in the <br />area prior to the CSI development, but had to be abandoned during construction of CSI. <br />Vent VM-5 never emitted elevated methane readings. Once CSI was complete VM-5 <br />was replaced with VM-5A. There are several theories regarding what is causing the <br />current elevated readings, including: <br /> Construction disturbance increased methane production in this area and it will <br />take time for it to dissipate. <br /> CSI’s building foundation is this area consisted of geopiers because there were <br />wetland-type soils at depth. Wetland type soils produce soil gases and act as a <br />path of least resistance so digging into them could have resulted in the elevated <br />readings. <br /> Pavement of a road between the dump and CSI’s building could have trapped <br />methane in the area of VM-5A. <br /> <br />Staff is working with Barr Engineering, who is preparing a scope of work letter outlining <br />a path forward on resolving this issue. The MPCA is aware of the issue, and while they <br />are concerned, they have signaled to the City that we can take the necessary time to <br />determine the best course of action moving forward. Most importantly, CSI’s building is <br />not impacted by the elevated readings at VM-5A, which is directly adjacent to their <br />building foundation. This is confirmed through multiple samples taken at six stack points <br />on their roof, which are tied to their vapor intrusion system. If fact, all samples detected <br />no methane. Also a signal the MPCA isn’t overly concerned is that Ryan Companies has <br />requested a RAP Implementation Approval/No Further Action letter to close out the CSI <br />project and the MPCA signaling they will provide this. Once staff better understands <br />how we intend to move forward to correct this issue, this information will be forwarded <br />to the EDC. For now, staff is recommending we hold-off on development of a RAP for <br />Block B until we have devised a corrective plan for the elevated methane at VM-5A. <br /> <br />BLOCK D <br />Ryan Companies is still working with Arden Hills-based Streamworks on a build-to-suit <br />for Block D. Streamworks is examining several metro-area sites. Streamworks is <br />considered an industrial/flex use, consisting of 1/3 office and 2/3 warehouse/flex space. <br /> <br />The biggest challenge is whether Block D can accommodate the square footage needed <br />by Streamworks. Initially, Streamworks indicated they needed approximately 80,000 SF <br />but that has increased to 90,000 – 100,000 SF and with the site only being four acres, <br />accommodating this additional square footage will be challenging. Staff, working with <br />Ryan, is engaging in Site Plan development to illustrate if and how we can meet these <br />space needs. <br /> <br />In an effort to provide reliable pricing to Streamworks, the City Council authorized <br />conducting a Phase II environmental study and geotechnical testing on October 13, 2015. <br />This effort was necessary as Block D was one of the first properties acquired in New <br />Brighton Exchange, and because of that a Phase II was not conducted at the time of sale. <br />In working with Barr Engineering, and understanding the historical use of the site, staff