Overview

LiRo provided an extensive array of environmental consulting services to JetBlue Airways for the redevelopment of both Terminal 5 and Terminal 6 at John F. Kennedy International Airport.

About the Project

LiRo was involved in the environmental assessment at historic Terminal 5 at JFK International Airport. The LiRo environmental team conducted a comprehensive investigation to identify asbestos-containing materials (ACM) and inventory hazardous/universal waste in various structures. These were demolished in advance of the construction of the new Terminal 5 and support hangars.

Design specification and removal plans were generated for the abatement of substantial quantities and varieties of ACM. Design documents were compiled into a larger construction/renovation plan that included demolition plans also prepared by LiRo and submitted to PANYNJ for review as a Tenant Alteration Application. Upon approval and throughout the abatement phase, LiRo performed the project monitoring and area air testing as well as work area inspections, waste tracking, and re-occupancy statements required by PANYNJ. Subsequently, LiRo also performed oversight of the demolition, recorded waste quantities generated, and reported on the daily progress.

JetBlue awarded LiRo an environmental consulting contract for removal of a hydrant jet fueling system to support redevelopment of Terminal 5. The hydrant fueling system work was complicated by the presence of asbestos-wrapped underground fueling system pipe. LiRo developed a Health and Safety Plan, Soil Management Plan, and Spill Prevention and Control Plan for the project. In addition, LiRo prepared asbestos abatement design documents for the fueling line and existing buildings in the project area.

LiRo completed site investigations and prepared Contract Documents (Plans and Specifications) for demolition of: four former warehouse buildings, UST closure, remediation of a petroleum spill, asbestos containing material removal, lead-paint removal, and hazardous materials handling. LiRo also performed an extensive evaluation of “baseline” subsurface conditions to document the nature and extent of pre-existing contamination for JetBlue to incorporate into their lease agreement with the airport owner.

Subsequent to the opening of Terminal 5, LiRo was again retained by JetBlue to perform a full facility inspection of Terminal 6. LiRo mobilized a large team of inspectors and coordinated access with PANYNJ throughout the effort, which lasted several weeks. Design specifications were then generated for the abatement of document ACM, which included a variance application for the removal of spray-applied fireproofing above the passenger area.

Project Challenges & Solutions

Due to the fueling system having leaked in the past, LiRo was responsible for implementing a soil management program involving extensive subsurface soil sampling and was tasked with preparing closure documents for the fueling system.

The airside work had to be closely coordinated with liaisons. The airside development work included the demolition of existing flight wings and out buildings. The evaluation of baseline subsurface conditions included the installation of wells throughout the airside lease area.

Outcome

LiRo supported JetBlue Airways and the PANYNJ with environmental investigation, design, and inspection throughout the course of the redevelopment program. The Redevelopment Program consisted of the construction of the new 640,000 sf terminal building with 26 gates, terminal access roads, airfield construction including hydrant fueling, a 1,500-space parking garage, and an elevated passenger connector to the existing AirTrain station. The new terminal accommodates up to 250 flights daily.