Willow Grove NAS JRB FY19
Abstract
The Horsham Land Redevelopment Authority (HLRA) is requesting continued OEA financial grant assistance to support the HLRA to accomplish their goals and objectives relating to the declaration of surplus property by the U.S. Navy relating to the NAS-JRB Willow Grove facility under BRAC 2005. In July 2014, the Navy advised the HLRA that a newly identified environmental concern would impact their ability to transfer property per the informal schedule previously discussed. The issue relates to the presence of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in the groundwater on and in the vicinity of the former base. The full impact on the schedule for property transfer is unknown at this time. The Environmental Protection Agency s (EPA) PFAS Action Plan states the EPA is “moving forward with how best to designate PFOA and PFOS as CERCLA “hazardous substances” using one of the available statutory mechanisms.” Despite this statement, as of this date, no standards for PFAS substances in soil, surface water or sediments have been issued. This delay is continuing the uncertainties faced by the Navy in developing a remedial solution to the PFAS issue at the former NAS-JRB Willow Grove. Despite these uncertainties, the Navy is proceeding with actions which may affect their ability to issue a Finding of Suitability to Transfer (FOST) document and result in the resumption of economic development conveyance negotiations. The Navy anticipates these actions, as well as land use controls and deed restrictions, will allow them to work with the regulators towards agreement that redevelopment can proceed. OEA technical and financial support will permit the current HLRA staff to continue operations and provide input during the Navy’s investigation of and remedial response to the PFAS contamination issue, as well as, continue working with a potential master developer candidate in developing a master developer agreement. It will also permit continuing efforts regarding public relations regarding the future redevelopment.
Document Details
- Document Type
- DoD Grant Award
- Publication Date
- Feb 04, 2020
- Source ID
- HQ00051910021
Entities
People
- Tom Ames
Organizations
- Horsham Land Redevelopment Authority
- Office of Local Defense Community Cooperation
- Office of the Secretary of Defense