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Documents: LettersBGwT response letter to BRA re: 700 Harrison Avenue, Jan. 6, 2005 |
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January 6, 2005 Ms. Maria Faria, Assistant Director for Housing
Subject: Residences at 700 Harrison Avenue Notice of Project Change Dear Ms. Faria: Thank you for the opportunity to comment on the subject project. The Boston Groundwater Trust was established by the City Council to monitor groundwater levels in those sections of the City where wood piling building foundations are threatened with deterioration because of a reduction in groundwater levels and to make recommendations for overcoming the problem. As such, our comments are limited to groundwater related issues. While I understand that, as stated in the NPC, the project change will not affect the geotechnical issues discussed in the PNF, I would like to raise a couple of cautions. I understand that the project has committed to groundwater monitoring and recharge and commend the proponents for that position. I would suggest that the proponent consult with the Trust regarding the best locations for monitoring wells, that monitoring data be provided to the Trust during construction, and that the wells be accessible for monitoring by the Trust after construction as part of our network. Further, because the project will have an underground garage in an area that is on the edge of the original shoreline, it is important that there be no dry weather pumping of groundwater into the sewer system. Such pumping can have a significant depressing effect on nearby groundwater levels, while also increasing the load on the BWSC sewer system. We therefore ask that a registered professional engineer certify annually that there has been no dry weather pumping during the preceding year. We look forward to working with the proponent and the BRA to address these issues as the project moves forward. Very truly yours, Elliott Laffer
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