Targeted brownfield assessment for Oklahoma Army National Guard former McAlester armory, McAlester, Oklahoma

              )
Phase I TBA
TARGETED BROWNFIELD ASSESSMENT
For
Oklahoma Army National Guard
Former McAlester Armory
McAlester, Oklahoma
ASTM E 1527-05
Phase I Environmental Site Assessment
All Appropriate Inquiry
Prepared by:
OKLAHOMA
DEPARTMENT Of ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY
May 8, 2013
1 Former McAlester Armory
McAlester, Oklahoma
)
Prepared for:
City of McAlester
I st and Washington
P.O. Box 578
Pittsburg County
McAlester, Oklahoma 74502
Prepared by:
Oklahoma Department of Environmental Quality
Land Protection Division
707 N. Robinson
P.O. Box 1677
Oklahoma City, Oklahoma 73101-1677
I declare that to the best of my professional knowledge and belief, I meet the definition of
Environmental Professional as defined in Section 312.10 of40 CFR 312. I have specific
qualifications based on education, training, and experience to assess a property of the nature,
history, and setting of the subject property. I have developed and performed the all appropriate
inquiries in conformance with the standards and practices set forth in 40 CFR Part 312.
Phase ] TBA
Environmental Professional in charge of the project:
Heather Mallory
Environmental Programs Specialist III
Other Environmental Scientist working on the project:
Environmental Program Specialist II
2 Former McAlester Armory
McAlester, Oklahoma
)
Table of Contents
1.0 Executive Summary ..... ..... ................... .......... ..................... ....... ............... ..... 6
2.0 Introduction .. .... ........ .. ..... .. ...... ... ... .. .......... ..... ... .... .... ... .............. ... ... ..... ......... 7
2.1 Purpose ... ... .... ........... ....................................... ............. ... .... .. ... ............. .. . 7
2.2 Detailed Scope-of-Services ......... ........ ....... .... ....... ......... .. ........................ 8
2.3 Significant Assumptions ............ ........................ ...................... .......... ...... 8
2.4 Limitations and Exceptions ..... .. .......................... ............... ...................... 9
2.5 Special Tenns and Conditions ....... .............................................. ...... ...... 9
3.0 Site Characterization and History ........................................................ .......... 9
3.1 Location and Legal Description .. ...................... ...... ..... .... .. ...... .............. .. 9
3.2 Site and Vicinity Characterization ........................................................... 1 0
3.3 Description of Structures, Roads, and Other Improvements ............ .... ... 11
3.4 Owner, Property Manager, and Occupant Infonnation ........................... 12
3.5 Infonnation Reported by User Regarding Environmental Lien or
Specialized Knowledge or Experience .... .......... .......................... ............ 12
3.6 Commonly Known or Reasonably Ascertainable Infonnation ................ 12
3.7 Valuation Reduction for Environmental Issues ....................................... 13
3.8 CUITent Use of Property ..... .. ... .......... ........ .. ................................ ............. 13
3.9 Past Use of Property ........ ................. ..... ................... ......... ..... ...... ............ 13
) 3.9.1 Review of Aerial Photos .................. .. .. .............. ....... .......... ... ......... 13
3.9.2 Fire Insurance Maps ... ... ............... ...... .................. .. .... .. .. ................. 14
3.10 Current and Past Use of Adjoining Properties ....................................... 14
3.1 1 Environmental (Physical) Setting .. ........ .. ........ .... ........... .. ..... ........... .... .15
3.11.1 Surface Water Characteristics ................ ........ ............. ............... 15
3.11.2 Subsurface Geological Characteristics ........ ........ .. .................... 15
3.11.3 Groundwater Characteristics ..................................................... .! 6
3.11.4 Air Characteristics ..................................................................... 16
4.0 Records Review .. ........... .. ......... ........... ... .......... ......... ........................ ........ .. .. 16
4.1 Federal National Priorities List ............ ......................... ........................... 17
4.2 Federal CERCLIS List ....... .............................. ................................ ... ..... 17
4.3 Federal RCRA CORRACTS Facilities List... .......................................... 17
4.4 Federal RCRA non-CORRACTS TSD Facilities List.. ...... ........ .... ......... 17
4.5 RCRA Generators Lis!. ............................................................................ 17
4.6 Federal ERNS List ........ .... .................. ...................... .. ............ ................. 17
4.7 Federal institutional ControVEngineering Control Registries .............. ... 18
4.8 State-Equivalent NPL ........................................................................ ...... 18
4.9 State-Equivalent CERCLIS ..................................................................... 18
4.10 State and Tribal lists of Hazardous Waste Sites Identified for
Investigation or Remediation .......................... ...................................... 18
4.11 State Landfill and/or Solid Waste Disposal Sites ........ .. ........ .. .. ............ 18
4.12 State Leaking Underground Storage Tank List .......................... ...... ..... 18
4.13 State Registered Storage Tank Lists ............ ......................................... .19
Phase I TBA 3 Former McAlester Armory
McAlester, Oklahoma
)
4.14 State Institutional Control/Engineering Control Registries .... .. ....... .... .. 19
4.15 State Voluntary Cleanup Sites and Brownfield Sites ........... ......... ... ..... 20
4.16 State Environmental Complaints and Local Services Response ............ 20
4.17 City Directories, Property Tax Files, Building Department Records,
Zoning/Land Use Records ... .... .......... .... ..... .. .. ... ...... .... .. .. .. ...... .. ............ 20
4.18 National Register of Historic Places ...................... .... ... ..... ............... ..... 20
4.19 Oil and Gas Records .................. ... ........ ............ .......... ............... ..... ....... 20
4.20 Dry Cleaners ........ ... ... ......... ... ... .................... .. ....................... ....... ......... 20
5.0 Site Reconnaissance and Interview .................................. ... ....... .................... 21
5.1 Methodology and Limiting Conditions ...... .. .. ... ... ....... ....... .......... .. .......... 21
5.2 General Site Conditions ..... ............. ....... ..... .......................................... ... 21
5.2.1 Above Ground Storage Tanks .............................. ...... ............. ........ 22
5.2.2 Underground Features .... ... ................. ........ ......................... ........ ... .22
5.2.3 Landfills and/or Dumping ............................................................ ... 22
5.2.4 Impoundments ................... .......... .................. ... ... ....... ........ .... .. .. ..... 23
5.2.5 Monitoring Wells .... .... ... ................. ... .. ............. ....... ...... .. ............... 23
5.2.6 Disturbed/Stained Soil and Seeps ......... ................. ... ...................... 23
5.2.7 Chemical Spills ................ ............. ............ ... ...... ........... ... .... ..... ... ... 23
5.2.8 Farm Waste & Known Pesticide Misapplication .................... ........ 23
5.2.9 Discharges and Runofffrom Adjacent Property Affecting
the Site ....... ................ .... ..... .......... ... ...... ... ... ... .......... ... .... ...... ... ...... 23
5.2.10 Petroleum Products and Oil and Natural Gas Exploration ........ ... 23
5.2.11 Asbestos .. ... .... .... ........... ..... .. .. ... ... .... .. .. ....... .......... ... ....... .. .. ..... ..... 24
5.2.12 Lead ................ ..... ... .............................. .. ....... ................ ... ........... .. 24
5.2.13 Transformers/PCB Equipment/Mercury ............. ...................... ... .25
5.2.14 Air Emissions and Wastewater Discharge ........... ... ...................... 25
5.2.15 Industrial Activities ................ ...................... ............... .......... ... ... .. 25
5.2.16 Hazardous Chemicals ........ .... ......... ....... ..... ......................... ... ...... .25
5.2.17 Unidentified Substance Containers ....... ........................................ 25
5.3 Exterior Observations ................... ... ... .. .. ......... ...... ...... ....... .. ..... ........ ... ... 26
5.4 Interior Observations ....... ........... ... ...... ........................... ....... .................. 27
5.5 Interviews ....... ................... ..... ... ... ..... .......... ... .. .... ... ... ... .... ... .......... ..... ..... 28
5.5.1 Interviews with Past and Present Owners of the Property .............. 28
5.5.2 Interviews with Key Site Manager .................. ... ......................... ... 28
5.5.3 Interviews with Operators and Occupants of the Property ............. 28
5.5.4 Interviews with State and/or Local Government Officials ............. 28
6.0 Findings .................................. ............. ........................................................... 29
7.0 Opinion and Recommendations ..... ...... ...................... ........... ... ................... ... 30
8.0 Data Gaps ... ..... ....... ....... ....... ..... ... ........ .... ...... ............................................... 30
9.0 Conclusions .. ... ... .. .. .... ... .................. ... .. ............ ... ...... ... ....... .... .... ... ....... .... .. ... 30
10.0 Additional Services ................. ........................ ..... .......................................... 30
11.0 Deviations ................. ..... ................... .... ........ ... ..... ......... .. ...... .... .. ............. .... .31
12.0 References ............... ....... ............... ... ...... ...... ... ....... ... ....... ............. ......... ....... .31
13.0 Appendices ................. ..... ............... ... .. ... ............ .... ..... ... ........... .. ...... ... ...... ... .33
Phase ITBA 4 Former McAlester Armory
McAlester, Oklahoma
)
)
14.0 Background and Disclaimer ................ ..... ........ .. .. ............. ............ .. ... ............ 34
Appendix A - Site (Vicinity) Map
USGS Topographic Maps
DEQ Dataviewer & DEQ GIS Maps
DEQ Institutional Control Viewer
Oklahoma Water Resources Board (OWRB) Maps
FEMA Floodplain Map
Sanborn Maps
UST Map
Geographic Information for USTs
Emergency Response Notification System (ERNS)
Asbestos Inspection Report
Lead Inspection Report
Deeds
Memorandum of Agreement between DEQ and tbe City of McAlester
Map of Air Quality Pem1itted Facilities
List of Dry Cleaners
Lab Results
Appendix B - Floor Plan
Appendix C - Site Notes
Appendix D - Site Photographs
Appendix E- Aerial Photographs
Appendix F - C.H. Guernsey & Company. Indoor Firing Range Lead Issues Report
(Oklahoma Army National Guard), October 2005
Appendix G - OCC UST Closure Report
Appendix H - National Register of Historic Places Documentation
Appendix I - Qualifications of Environmental Professionals
Phase! TBA 5 Former McAlester Armory
McAlester, Oklahoma
)
)
1.0 Executive Summary
This Phase I Targeted Brownfield Assessment (TBA) of the McAlester Armory, located at 319
East Polk Avenue, McAlester, Oklahoma, was performed in accordance with the ASTM E 1527-
05, for the purposes of identifying potential environmental concerns at the subject property. A
site reconnaissance of the subject property was conducted by Rebecca Marfurt, Alea Smith,
Liberty Galvin, and Johnathan McClary of the Oklahoma Department of Environmental Quality
(DEQ) on August 5th
, 2012. The subject property is located in Section 31, Township 6 North,
and Range 15 East SE \1.1, SW \1.1, in Pittsburg County, Oklahoma. The subject property address
is 319 East Polk Avenue [at the southwest comer of3 rd and Polk streets] McAlester, 74502
[latitude 34.943280, longitude -95.761202] (Ref. 4) [Appendix C].
A cursory summary ofthe main environmental site assessment findings is provided below.
However, details are not included or fully developed in this section, and the report must be read
in its entirety for a comprehensive understanding of the items contained herein.
• The McAlester Armory was built by the Works Progress Administration in 1936. It was
managed and maintained by the Oklahoma Military Department (OMD) to support the
military mission of the Oklahoma Army National Guard (OKARNG).
• Results ofC.H. Guernsey and Company sampling on May 3, 2004 indicated lead dust
concentrations ranging from 116.0 flg/ft' on the drill floor to 291.6 flg/ft' near the stairs
leading to the basement indoor firing range (IFR). Two to three inches of standing water
was present on the floor of the basement IFR, therefore no wipe samples were taken in
that room dUling reconnaissance. The IFR bullet catch system did not contain sand
[Appendix F].
• A lead and asbestos inspection was completed by Marshall Environmental Management,
Inc. on March 8, 2012. Results of the asbestos inspection showed asbestos to be present
in the floor tile and mastic in the main building. Asbestos is also present in the floor-tile,
mastic, bedding mud, transite, and ceilings in outbuildings 4, 5, and 7. Lead inspection
revealed lead-based paint on the armory windows, doors, parking stops, floors, stair rails,
trim, and exterior siding in both the main armory building and outbuilding 3. Elevated
levels of lead dust (>40 flglft2) were found on most of the floors in the main armory
building and on the floors of outbuildings 2, 3, and 5. Two to three inches of standing
water was present on the floor of the basement IFR, therefore no wipe samples were
taken in that room during reconnaissance. For a detailed description oflead and asbestos
inspection results, see Appendix A.
• Review of the Oklahoma Corporation Commission (OCC' s) and OMD's records
indicated that two underground storage tanks (UST) had previously been present at the
site [Appendix G] . One 4,000 gallon tank and one 1,000 gallon tank were installed in
1981 on the northwestern side of the property and used for the storage of gasoline.
Records indicate that the tanks were removed on December 23, 1991. The tank was
rendered unusable for storage of any fluids and the tank and its contents were disposed of
in accordance with applicable local, state, and federal regulations. OCC's records did not
Phase! TBA 6 Former McAlester Armory
McAlester, Oklahoma
)
•
•
indicate that there had been an incidence of a leak in the UST at the subject property.
Upon removal of the UST, soil tests were conducted for benzene, toluene, ethylbenzene,
xylenes, and TPH. All of the tests results were below Environmental Protection Agency
(EPA) detection limits. For the TPH test, it is undocumented as to whether this test was
for diesel range organics (DRO) or gasoline range organics (GRO).
The DEQ database of historic dry cleaners was searched and yellowpages.com was
searched for present day dry cleaners within I mile of the subject property. 12 historic
dry cleaners and 3 present day dry cleaners were found. The closest historic dry cleaner
is located 0.57 miles southwest of the subject property. The closest present day dry
cleaner is located 0.80 miles southwest of the subject property. The dry cleaners are
considered potential environmental conditions (PECs) according to ASTM 1528-06. For
more information about the dry cleaners within I mile of the subject property, refer to
Appendix A.
No sites on the National Priority List (NPL), deleted NPL database, active or archived
Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Information
System (CERCLIS) database, Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA)
database, Emergency Response Notification System (ERNS) list, State Voluntary
Cleanup Program and State Brownfield Programs lists were identified on the subject
property. The subject property is on the DEQ Site Cleanup Assistance Program's (SCAP)
list for investigation and cleanup of environmental hazards.
) 2.0 Introduction
The State of Oklahoma Department of Environmental Quality under a Brownfield
Assistance Agreement (No.RP9668I 001-0) (Ref. I) with the EPA conducted a Phase I Targeted
Brownfield Assessment of the McAlester Armory
located at 319 East Polk Avenue, McAlester, Oklahoma.
2.1 Purpose
The purpose of this assessment is to examine the environmental conditions within the
target area. This information will be provided to the City of McAlester to assist in its
redevelopment planning as well as meet the All Appropriate Inquiry requirement of the
landowner liability protections under the Comprehensive Environmental Response,
Compensation and Liability Act (CERCLA, better known as Superfund- Ref. 2), as
provided in the Small Business Relief and Brownfields Revitalization Act of 2002
(Public Law 107-118, Subtitle B - Ref. 3). The purpose ofa Phase I Targeted
Brownfield Assessment (TBA) is to identify, to the extent feasible, recognized
environmental conditions in connection with the target property through a systematic
review of readily available information sources and a site reconnaissance.
DEQ is providing technical assistance to the project by evaluating the environmental
condition of the property prior to the City of McAlester acquiring the property. Funding
for this assessment has been provided by the EPA.
Phase 1 TBA 7 Former McA lester Armory
McAlester, Oklahoma
)
)
2.2 Detailed Scope-of-Services
DEQ examined the current use of the property and then identified the historical uses of
the property to determine if recognized environmental conditions exist. DEQ examined
historical documents, governmental databases, deed records, aerial photographs,
governmental environmental files, Sanborn Fire Insurance Maps, conducted interviews
with two city officials, reviewed OMD site records, and visited the site. A good faith
effort was made to identify possible environmental conditions that might affect the
development ofthe property. DEQ personnel collected a san1ple from the soil outside of
the IFR vent fan and two samples from the oil-water separator located near Outbuilding 5
[Appendix C].
2.3 Significant Assumptions
History and knowledge ofthe subject property shows that the building was used as a
National Guard Armory. There was once an IFR in the basement of the armory. The
bullets used at the time were most likely made from lead. Because of the presence of the
IFR there is a potential for lead dust to be tracked throughout the building. Lead has been
used as a color carrier in paints for hundreds of years. In 1978 its use in residential paints
was restricted in the United States. Because of the armory's age there is a potential for
lead-based paint to be used in the building. The IFR consists of a vent fan in the exterior
wall that discharges directly outside. Because ofthis the soil located directly outside the
vent fan has the potential for lead or other heavy metal contamination.
Asbestos containing material (ACM) is material that contains one or more asbestos
fibers. The U.S. began banning the use of asbestos in most building materials in the
1970s due to studies confirming the harmful health effects caused by exposure to
airborne asbestos. Because of the armory's age, there is a potential for ACM in the
building components (roofing materials, floor tiles, mastic, ceiling tiles, window putty,
natural gas-fired heating systems, etc). DEQ hired Marshall Environmental to conduct a
lead and asbestos survey on the property.
Polychlorinated biphenyls (PCB) are oils that were used in electrical equipment until
their regulation in 1977. There is a potential for PCB in florescent lighting ballasts,
capacitors, transformers, and other dielectric fluid filled electrical equipment at the
Armory.
During a previous sampling event there was flooding that had occurred. Because of this
there is a potential for mold to exist within the armory. Chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) are
compounds used in heating, ventilation, and cooling (HV AC) systems and in fire
suppression systems. The use, release, and recycling of these compounds are regulated by
EPA. There is a potential for CFC's to be present in the HVAC equipment and fire
suppression system of the armory. Mercury is a heavy metal used in thermostats,
pressure gauges, and other building and process related equipment. There is a potential
for mercury containing thermostats at the armory. Lead, nickel, and cadmium are heavy
metals used in batteries. There is a potential for heavy metal containing batteries in the
Phase I TBA 8 Former McA lester Armory
McAlester, Oklahoma
)
)
emergency lighting and exit signage at the armory. Other issues may be present that were
not visually evident.
2.4 Limitations and Exceptions
The purpose of an environmental site assessment is to identity actual or potential
"recognized environmental conditions" that may result in liability, land use restrictions,
or cause delays in revitalization. The ASTM Phase I Environmental Site Assessment E
1527 - 05 (Ref. 21) is the minimum standard for environmental due diligence in the
real estate industry and meets the standard for All Appropriate Inquiry under
the Small Business Liability Relief and Brownfields Revitalization Act of 2002. A
diligent effort in accordance with generally accepted good commercial and customary
standards and practices was undertaken to identity the "recognized environmental
conditions" that might affect the revitalization project. However, the identification of
old hazardous waste sites is an evolving process; therefore, DEQ cannot state with
absolute certainty that no other potential hazardous waste sites are located in the area.
This assessment was conducted under constraints of time, cost, and scope and reflects a
limited investigation and evaluation. It reflects the normal degree of care and skill that is
ordinarily exercised by environmental professionals conducting business in this or similar
localities. In no event shall the DEQ or its employees be liable for any damages, injury,
loss, cost or expense whatsoever arising in connection with the use or reliance on the
infonnation contained in this report, except as otherwise provided by law.
The information in this report is based on a review of governmental records, information
provided by the City of McAlester, the OMD, and observations made by the
environmental professional. The results of this assessment, as documented in this report,
are valid as of the date of this report. This assessment does not include sampling of rock,
groundwater, surface water, or air. For qualifications of the environmental professional
and others working on the project see Appendix I.
2.5 Special Terms and Conditions
This assessment report has been prepared for the City of McAlester by the DEQ with
EPA funds. Information about this report will be provided to the EPA for its files. This
report and the working file are public record and subject to the Oklahoma Open Records
Act and the federal Freedom ofInformation Act.
3.0 Site Characterization and History
3.1 Location and Legal Description
The subject property is located at 319 East Polk Avenue, McAlester, Oklahoma. This
property consists of approximately 5.29 acres of land and contains the former National
Guard Armory building. A site map and topographical map depicting the property have
been provided in Appendix A.
Phase I TBA 9 Former McAlester Armory
McAlester. Oklahoma
)
)
The subject property is located in Section 31, Township 6 North, and Range 15 East SE
~ , SW ~, in Pittsburg County, Oklahoma. The subject property address is 319 East Polk
Avenue [at the southwest comer of3'<1 and Polk streets] McAlester, 74502 [latitude
34.943280, longitude -95.761202] (Ref. 4) [Appendix A].
The legal description ofthe subject property is as follows:
All of Lots 9 and 10 and the West 39 feet of Lot II; and
The south half of Lots 6, 7, and 8 and the east 61 feet of Lot II and that part of the alley
as follows: beginning at the southwest comer of Lot 8; thence in a southerly direction a
distance of20 feet to the northwest comer of Lot 9; thence in an easterly direction a
distance of300 feet to the northeast comer of Lot II ; thence in a northerly direction a
distance of20 feet to the southeast comer of Lot 6; thence in a westerly direction of300
feet to the point of beginning; and
The north halfoflots 6,7, and 8, Block 99, and the south half of vacated Taylor Avenue
adjacent to lots 6, 7, and 8; and
The northerly 80.50 feet of Lot 5; and
Lots 5 and 12;
All in Block 99 in the City of McAlester, Pittsburg County, State of Oklahoma;
Together with the improvements thereon and appurtenances thereunto belonging.
3.2 Site and Vicinity Characterization
The McAlester Armory was built in 1936. It was managed and maintained by the OMD
to support the military mission of the OKARNG. The OKARNG is a component of the
United States Army and fulfills the military mission of national security. According to
Pete Stasiak, City Manager for the City of McAlester, the OMD ceased to operate at the
Armory approximately in late 2009 (Ref. 4).
Natural gas is supplied to the subject property by Oklahoma Natural Gas and telephone
by AT&T (Ref. 23). Electricity, water, sewer, and sanitation services are supplied by the
City of McAlester (Ref. 23).
The property on which the McAlester armory stands originally belonged to the Jeff Lee
Athletic Association. It was gifted to the City of McAlester for a nominal amount in 1936
for the construction of a swimming pool, a stadium, and the McAlester armory, which
was built to house both National Guard units as well as recreational programs. The
remainder of the property was gifted by the Jeff Lee Athletic Association in 1947. In
1967 the property containing the armory was transferred from the City of McAlester to
Phase/TBA 10 Former McAlester Armory
McAlester, Oklahoma
)
)
the State of Oklahoma via a quit claim deed, in order to ensure that the property was to be
used exclusively for OKANG activities.
The OMD, through a quit claim deed, transferred ownership of the armory to DEQ on
August 18, 2011 (Ref. 4). DEQ is the current owner of the facility until remediation is
complete, at which time ownership will be transferred to the City of McAlester. DEQ
will file a deed notice on the property following remediation of asbestos and lead in the
buildings.
A review of the topographical map indicated that the surface elevation of the site is
approximately 700 feet above mean sea level. The topographical gradient is to the
northwest. The topographical map can be found in Appendix A.
3.3 Description of Structures, Roads, and Other Improvements
The McAlester Armory is a self-contained, one-story building constructed of
locally-quarried stone with cast concrete detailing. The building measures 118 feet (east
to west) by 201 feet (north to south). The McAlester Armory was built in 1936 by the
Works Progress Administration (WPA). The Annory is similar to other WPA armories
designed by the architect Bryan W. Nolan in that it houses a large central drill floor with
a large vaulted barrel ceiling. Currently, the drill floor ceiling has been fitted with a
lowered ceiling tile grid and fluorescent lighting. Because armories of this era were
designed for both military training as well as for community events, a large stage area is
present on the east side of the drill floor. Underneath the stage area lays a subterranean
indoor firing range, which, like many other WPA basement firing ranges, contains a
substantial amount of water that has seeped through the porous sandstone and cement.
Site reconnaissance by Guernsey and Company in 2004 and by DEQ staff in 2012
reported standing water in the IFR, thus it is likely that there is water present on the floors
of the IFR throughout the year. The remains ofa bullet trap is present at the far end of the
IFR. The IFR bullet trap does not contain sand. The ventilation system within the IFR is
comprised of a fan located in the north wall that vented directly outside (Ref. 4)
[Appendices B, C, D, and F].
The McAlester Armory was designed to house two units; therefore the armory is
partitioned into two halves north and south of the drill floor. The section south ofthe drill
floor housed cavalry offices, storage cages, supply rooms and the men's latrine. Rooms
north ofthe drill floor housed the mess hall, infantry offices, infantry supply rooms, and
the women's latrine.
The Armory has three principal facades, the main west entry from the drill floor that
accesses Third Street, the North entry, and one facing south accessing Polk Street.
Original metal downspouts are located on all facades. Most of the original windows have
been replaced in the armory or bricked over as a result of a 1980 renovation project.
WP A markers identify the building. Over west entry overhead door is a large original
sign, "McAlester Armory 1936." Above the original sign is additional metal lettering
PhaseiTBA 11 Former McAlester Armory
McAlester, Oklahoma
)
)
from the 1980 renovation, "George Nigh National Guard Armory, McAlester,
Oklahoma." (Ref. 4) [Appendices B, C, D, and FJ.
The Armory covers an approximate area of23,719 square feet. Within the lot where the
armory sits there are four additional buildings that were used in conjunction with the
armory. On the same lot there was previously an Army Reserve Recruiting Station, this is
the concrete slab in the southeast section of the lot that can be seen in the aerial
photographs in Appendix E. This building was demolished in 1990, and the area has been
used as a household hazardous waste drop-off site for the community and is not affiliated
with the National Guard armory. (Ref. 4). There have been no reported spills or
contamination issues related to this facility.
The subject property is surrounded by paved roads that include North Third Street to the
west, East Polk Avenue to the south, and North Fourth Street to the East. A paved
parking lot can be found to the north of the former armory building.
3.4 Owner, Property Manager, and Occupant Information
The State of Oklahoma, acting through the OMD, transferred the subject property to the
DEQ through a quitclaim deed signed on August 18, 2011. The OMD has ceased to
operate from the Armory at the time of preparation of this report (Ref. 4). Mr. Mel
Priddy, Community Services Director, City of McAlester currently controls access to the
Armory.
3.5 Information Reported by User Regarding Environmental Lien or Specialized
Knowledge or Experience
Information on AULs for the subject property was not provided by either the OMD or the
City of McAlester during the preparation of this report. There were no known AULs on
the subject property discovered during the record search at the county courthouse. No
environmental liens or use limitations were reported for the subject property, and it does
not appear in the Brownfield IC database.
3.6 Commonly Known or Reasonable Ascertainable Information
The Armory fulfilled a longstanding military need for an adequate, secure drill hall and
arms storage building for use by two Oklahoma National Guard units, Headquarters
Battery and Combat Train 2nd Battalion I 58th Field Artillery, and Battery F 158th Field
Artillery, of the 45th Infantry Division.
The property on which the McAlester armory stands originally belonged to the Jeff Lee
Athletic Association. It was gifted to the City of McAlester for a nominal amount in 1936
for the construction of a swimming pool, a stadium, and the McAlester armory, which
was built to house both National Guard units as well as recreational programs. The
remainder of the property was gifted by the Jeff Lee Athletic Association in 1947. In
Phase! TBA 12 Former McAlester Armory
McAlester, Oklahoma
)
)
1967 the property containing the armory was transferred from the City of McAlester to
the State of Oklahoma via a quit claim deed, in order to ensure that the property was to be
used exclusively for OKANG activities.
The OMD, through a quit claim deed, transferred ownership of the armory to DEQ on
August 18, 2011 (Ref. 4). DEQ is the current owner of the facility until remediation is
complete, at which time ownership will be transferred to the City of McAlester.
3.7 Valuation Reduction for Environmental Issues
Valuation of the property is outside the scope of this assessment. A professional
appraiser should be consulted to place a value on the property.
3.8 Current Use of Property
The property is currently not being used. The city would like to use the facility for
emergency response services, but are waiting to begin construction until the completion
of the Targeted Brownfield Assessment.
3.9 Past Use of Property
Phase] TBA
3.9.1 Review of Aerial Photos
Historic aerial photographs were searched to view the changes to the property
over time. The 1995,2004,2011 , and 2012 photos were found on Google Earth.
The 1955 map was found in the aerial photograph collection on the 5th floor of
DEQ. The map from 1938 was found in the archives at the Oklahoma
Department of Libraries. All of these photos can be found in Appendix E. The
following represents a summary of what was found at the subject property from
each photograph.
1938 aerial photograph
The 1938 aerial photograph shows the newly-constructed WPA armory building
standing in an open area in the north part of town. Lee Park and a swimming pool
can be seen to the north of the armory. The parkland and the swimming pool still
exist today. To the east of the armory property lies an athletic field, and the
remainder of the area appears to be residential or agricultural.
1955 aerial photograph
The 1955 aerial photograph shows the subject property to house a new
outbuilding on the east side of the main armory building (Building 7). It can be
presumed that Building 7 was constructed sometime between 1947 and 1955. The
Army Reserve Recruiting Station has been built to the east of Building 7. There
are residential properties, but mostly rural area surrounding the subject property.
13 Former McAlester Armory
McAlester, Oklahoma
)
)
1995 aerial photograph
This aerial photograph shows a satellite view of the subject property. Six
Auxiliary buildings can be seen and their location relative to the main annory
building. There is a concrete pad visible that may have had a building on it at one
time, but is only bare concrete at this point. It appears that there are many vehicles
parked on the property, as well as a number of dumpsters.
2004 aerial photograph
This aerial photograph shows a satellite view ofthe subject property. Six
Auxiliary buildings can be seen and their location relative to the main armory
building. The concrete pad to the east of the main annory building is still intact,
although there are no vehicles or dumpsters stored in that area.
2011 aerial photograph
This aerial photograph shows a satellite view of the subject property. Six
Auxiliary buildings can be seen and their location relative to the main armory
building. The concrete pad to the east ofthe main annory building is still intact,
and there are vehicles and dumpsters stored along the north side of the property.
2012 aerial photograph
This aerial photograph shows a satellite view ofthe subject property. Six
Auxiliary buildings can be seen and their location relative to the main armory
building. The concrete pad to the east of the main annory building is still intact,
although there are no vehicles or dumpsters stored in that area.
3.9.2 Fire Insurance Maps
Sanborn Fire Insurance maps were reviewed during the preparation of this Phase I TBA
[Appendix A]. Maps used show the development of the area in which the subject
property is located. The Sanborn Index shows the location of Lot 99, however there are
no detailed maps of this property, as there were no insured structures built in this area at
that time, being that it was primarily residential or fannland.
3.10 Current and Past Use of Adjoining Properties
The Subject Property is located at 319 East Polk Street, in a residential area. The property
is bordered by Third Street and residential housing on the west, by Polk Street and
residential housing on the south, Fourth Street and McAlester High School to the east,
and Lee Park to the north (Ref. 4).
Phase/TEA 14 Former McAlester Armory
McAlester. Oklahoma
)
)
3.11 Environmental (Physical) Setting
Physical setting sources were obtained from the U.S. Geological Survey, Federal
Emergency Management Association, United States Department of Agriculture, Natural
Resources Conservation Services, and a site visit conducted by DEQ personnel on
August 4,2012.
Pittsburg County is in the southeastern part of Oklahoma. The land area of this county is
about 1359 square miles. Pittsburg County consists primarily of hilly, Post oak and
blackjack oak cross timbers, sandstone ridges, and lower tall grass prairies. The City of
McAlester was established in 1872 by J.J. McAlester, a businessman who established a
trading post at the railroad intersection between the north-south and east-west lines. J.J.
McAlester was instrumental in developing the town's coal mining industry, which thrived
as a result ofthe train intersection in the center of town. Eventually, the state prison
opened west of the City of McAlester, and is still in operation today. The City of
McAlester is also home to many employees of McAlester Army Ammunition Plant,
which manufactures the majority ofthe US Army's weapons (Ref 23).
The elevation of Pittsburg county ranges from slightly more than 600 feet in the
northeastern part of the county to the highest point of 1,017 feet in the southeastern part
ofthe county. At the City of McAlester, the elevation is 700 feet. Weather records at
McAlester, the county seat, reveal an average annual rainfall of 41 inches in the
northwestern part of the county to 47 inches in southeastern Pittsburg County. The
highest rainfall occurs primarily in May; as rainfall averages 4 to 7 inches during that
month. Winter is typically the driest time of the year. The average annual temperature of
Pittsburg County is 62.2 degrees Fahrenheit (OF). The average summer temperature is
82°F and the highest temperature is 116 OF (RefS).
Phase/TEA
3.11.1 Surface Water Characteristics
The City of McAlester is located in the northwest section of the McAlester
Texarkana quadrangle (Ref. 6). Although there are no significant streams within
the City of McAlester, the city lies directly south of Lake McAlester, which is the
main municipal water source for the city, and directly southwest ofthe very large
Lake Eufaula.
3.11.2 Subsurface Geological Characteristics
General soils at the subject property belong to the Enders-Hector complex (EhE),
5 to 30 percent slopes. This complex consists of approximately 60% Enders soils
and 35% Hector soils. Enders series are predominant in wooded, hilly, upland
areas. This soil series consists primarily of sandy loam underlain by a layer of
yellowish-red clay loam. Enders soils have slow permeability and consist
primarily of weathered shale that is formed in the understories of oak, pine,
hickory, and tall grasses. This Hector Series consists of soil that is formed as a
result of acid sandstone weathering. As with the Enders soil series, Hector soils
15 Former McAlester Armory
McAlester, Oklahoma
)
are commonly fonned under the coverage of timber forests. These soils consist
primarily of fine brown sandy loam and fractured sandstone [Ref. 5].
3.11.3 Groundwater Characteristics
The hydrogeology as reported by the Oklahoma Water Resources Board (OWRB)
indicates the subject property is located within the Pennsylvania minor
groundwater basin inside the lower Canadian watershed. The aquifer vulnerability
is low in the subject property area.
The OWRB well log viewer was utilized to make a map of groundwater and
monitoring wells within a I mile radius of the subject property. The closest
monitoring wells to the subject property are located 0.24 miles south from the
subject property. All the water wells located within 1 mile are south of the subject
property. The closest groundwater wells are within 0.42 and 0.43 miles of the
subject property [Appendix A].
The Oklahoma Water Resources Board (OWRB) database consists only of
infonnation submitted to OWRB for all well data reported by licensed firms since
1982 and monitoring well data reported since 1988. There could be other wells in
the area that are not included in the database. Wells drilled prior to the licensing
requirements for well drillers would not necessarily have had a well log submitted
to the OWRB (Ref. 20).
3.11.4 Air Characteristics
The prevailing wind is from the south. Wind speed averages about II miles per
hour in most months, with the exception of strong March winds averaging about
13 miles per hour and calmer. August winds average about 9 miles per hour.
South-southeasterly winds prevail across the County except in January and
February, when winds become northerly (Ref. 5). There are no Air Quality
pennits located within 1.0 mile of the property.
4.0 Records Review
A regulatory database search was conducted by DEQ. This search included, at a
minimum, those records and distances from the subject property dictated as appropriate
in the ASTM E 1527-05 standard (Ref. 22). DEQ perfonned a review of available federal
and state databases to assess whether the subject property or proximate properties were
listed as having environmental concerns, which could have an adverse impact on the
subject property. Summarized below is the infonnation gained from the databases
reviewed for the purposes of this report.
Phasel TEA 16 Former McAlester Armory
McAlester, Oklahoma
)
)
4.1 Federal National Priorities List (NPL)
The subject property is not an NPL site. There are no NPL sites reported within a 1 mile
radius of the subject property (Ref. 9, 12). The subject property is not an NPL site.
The subject property does not have any deleted or partially deleted NPL sites within Y,
mile (Ref. 10, 11).
4.2 Federal Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and
Liability Information System (CERCLIS) List
The EP A database for Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation and
Liability Act (CERCLA) Infonnation Systems (CERUS) was searched for active and
archived CERCUS sites on and near the subject property. The ASTM's recommended
search radius for the subject property for both active and archived CERCUS sites is Y,
mile. No CERCUS sites were found within a Y, mile radius of the site. The Property is
not listed as an active CERCUS site.
The subject property is also not listed in the archived CERCUS site list. There are no
archived sites within a Y, mile of the subject property .
. 4.3 Federal RCRA CORRACTS Facilities List within One Mile
The subject property does not have any federal RCRA CORRACTS fac ilities within one
mile (Ref. 15, 19).
4.4 Federal RCRA Non-CORRACTS TSD Facilities List within One-half Mile
The subject property does not have any federal RCRA non-CORRACTS TSD facilities
within one half mile (Ref. 15, 19).
4.5 RCRA Generators List (property and adjoining properties)
The subject property does not have any listed RCRIS-Large Quantity Generators (LQGs)
or RCRIS-Small Quantity Generators (SQGs). There are no RCRIS LQG or SQG sites
reported at the adjoining properties either (Ref. 19,26).
4.6 Federal ERNS List (property only)
The subject property is not listed as an ERNS site. ERNS search results can be found in
Appendix A (Ref. 26).
Phasel TBA 17 Former McAlester Armory
McAlester, Oklahoma
)
)
4.7 Federal Institutional Control/Engineering Control Registries (property only)
No federal Institutional Control/Engineering Control registries exist at this time.
However county land records do not show any Institutional Controls or Engineering
Controls in effect at the subject property.
4.8 State-Equivalent NPL
DEQ does not have a State-equivalent NPL database. Oklahoma does not have a State
Superfund law to establish a State-equivalent NPL database.
4.9 State-Equivalent CERCLIS
DEQ does not have a State-equivalent CERCLIS database.
4.10 State and Tribal lists of Hazardous Waste Sites Identified for Investigation
or Remediation (property only)
The subject property is listed on the Site Cleanup Assistance Program's list for
investigation and cleanup (Ref. 18). No tribal lists of hazardous sites were reviewed
during the preparation of this Phase I TBA. At this time, such a list was not readily
available for review.
4.11 State LandfIll and/or Solid Waste Disposal Sites within One-half Mile
DEQ regulates landfills and solid waste disposal sites across the State of Oklahoma. State
landfills and solid waste disposal facilities were searched in the DEQ database within the
ASTM required minimum distance of Yz mile from the subject property. No permitted
landfills or solid waste disposal facilities are located within the search distance of the
subject property. The closest municipal solid waste landfill is the City of McAlester
Landfill which is 4.18 miles west of the subject property.
4.12 State Leaking Underground Storage Tank (LUST) List within One-half Mile
The OCC UST Notification Database and OWRB's Online Data viewer were searched to
locate any known leaking underground storage tank (LUST) sites located within the
ASTM's minimum search distance ofa Yz mile of the subject property. Two LUST sites
were found within a Yz mile radius. The following sites are listed and described below.
• The Handy Stop (#2), previously known as the Git-N-Go, located at 1922 N Main
Street, is 0.37 miles northwest of the subject property. The tanks are listed as
Phase l TBA
. currently in use to store gasoline. The case status has been closed since June of
1992. When the case was open the ground water was 0.003ppm of Benzene
found, and all other analyzed parameters were non-detectable. The LUST facility
ID number is 61 -00400.
18 Former McAlester Armory
McAlester, Oklahoma
)
Faci lity #
61-00400
61-08266
• The Ez Mart (#533) located at 610 N Main street is 0.47 miles southwest of the
subject property. The tanks are listed as permanently out of use, but previously
used for gasoline storage. The case status has been closed since May of2006. The
groundwater and soil were tested for Benzene, Toluene, Ethylbenzene, Xylenes,
and Naphthalene. The LUST facility ID number is 61-08266.
LUST sites within 0.5 miles of property
Tank Capacity
# of
Status
On-going
Name
Tanks (YIN)
Handy Stop; Previously
10,000 / 8,000 2/1 ClU N
ftGit-N-Go"
E-Z Mart #533 4,000/6,000 1/2 POU N
4.13 State Registered Storage Tank Lists (property and adjoining properties)
According to the OCC UST Notification Database, there are 6 UST sites within a one
half mile of the subject property [Appendix G]. There are 16 USTs and 10 ASTs within
one-half mile of the subject property. No tribal lists of storage tanks were reviewed
during the preparation of this Phase I TBA. At this time, such lists are not readily
available for review.
Review ofOCC's and OMD's records indicated that two USTs had previously been
present at the site [Appendix G]. One 4,000 gallon tank and one 1,000 gallon tank were
installed in 1981 on the northwestern side of the property and used for the storage of
gasoline. Records indicate that the tanks were removed on December 23, 1991. The tank
was rendered unusable for storage of any fluids and the tank and its contents were
disposed of in accordance with applicable local, state, and federal regulations. OCC's
records did not indicate that there had been an incidence of a leak in the UST at the
subject property. Upon removal of the UST, soil tests were conducted for benzene,
toluene, ethylbenzene, xylenes, and TPH. All of the tests results were below EPA
detection limits. For the TPH test, it is undocumented as to whether this test was for DRO
orGRO.
4.14 State Institutional Control/Engineering Control Registries (property only)
There are no Institutional Controls/Engineering Controls listed either in Oklahoma's
Brownfields Institutional Control database or in the county land records for the subject
property. No tribal institutional control/engineering control registries were reviewed
while conducting this Phase I TBA of the McAlester Armory. At the time of preparation
of this report, such tribal registries were not readily available for review. Following
cleanup of asbestos and lead in the armory building, DEQ will file a deed notice in the
county courthouse on the subject property.
Phase ITBA 19 Former McAlester Armory
McAlester, Oklahoma
)
4.15 State Voluntary Cleanup Sites and Browufield Sites within One-half Mile
The subject property does not have any Brownfield sites listed in the DEQ database.
There are no active VCP sites within one-half mile of the subject property, listed in the
DEQ VCP tracking database. No tribal lists of VCP or Brownfield sites were reviewed
during the preparation of this Phase I TBA. At this time, such lists are not readily
available for review.
4.16 State Environmental Complaints and Local Services Response
The DEQ Environmental Complaints and Local Services complaint database was
searched for the subject property and no complaints were found (Ref. 18).
4.17 City Directories, Property Tax Files, Building Department Records,
Zoning/Land Use Records
According to the McAlester Planning Department, the subject property and surrounding
properties are zoned residential (Ref. 4). Currently, there are no plans to change or adjust
zoning in the area. City directories, property tax files, and building department records
were not reviewed.
4.18 Natioual Register of Historic Places
The McAlester Armory was officially registered on the National Register of Historic
Places on July 25,1988 [Appendix H]. The site application was prepared in 1984. Since
that time, no major changes have taken place on the outside favade. The armory appears
to be in a similar condition today as it was during the time of application process.
As a result of being listed on the National Register, there may be certain restrictions in
renovating the outside of the structure if federal funds are used in the rehabilitation
process. The State Historic Preservation Officer (SHPO) should be consulted prior to any
external modifications.
4.19 Oil and Gas Records
A search of the Oklahoma Corporation Commission Well Data System did not reveal the
presence of any oil and gas production wells on the property, adjacent property, or
directly upgradient (Ref27)
4.20 Dry Cleaners
A search ofDEQ's historic dry cleaner databases was perfonned (Ref. 28) and a search
on yellowpages.com was performed (Ref. 29) to search for present day dry cleaners
within one mile of the subject property. Appendix A lists dry cleaners from the historic
databases as well as present day. The closest historic dry cleaner is located 0.57 miles
southwest of the subject property. Yellowpages.com was searched for dry cleaners and
Phase/TBA 20 Former McAlester Armory
McAlester, Oklahoma
) 5.0
laundries in McAlester, Oklahoma. Three dry cleaners located within I mile of the
subject property were identified (see below). The closest present day dry cleaner is
located 0.80 miles southwest of the subject property. The dry cleaners are considered
potential environmental conditions (PECs) according to ASTM 1528-06 (Ref. 30). For
more information about the dry cleaners within I mile of the subject property, refer to
Appendix A.
Present Day Dry Cleaners:
• 8ger Dry Cleaners - located at 115 S 6th Street is 0.86 miles south of the subject
property and is also shown on the historic dry cleaners lists indicating that it has
been in operation for some time.
• 75 Cleaners - located at 115 South 3m Street is 0.93 miles southwest of the
subject property and is shown on the historic dry cleaners lists indicating that it
has been in operation for some time.
• Woodmore's Laundry - located at 218 W Washington Avenue is 0.80 miles
southwest of the subject property. This dry cleaner does not appear on the
historic dry cleaner lists.
Site Reconnaissance and Interview
5.1 Methodology and Limiting Conditions
A site reconnaissance of the McAlester Armory was performed by Rebecca Marfurt, Alea
Smith, Liberty Galvin and Johnathan McClary ofthe DEQ on August 5th
, 2012. The site
reconnaissance consisted of a visual inspection of the Armory building and its
surrounding property.
During the August 5th
, 2012 site reconnaissance, one sample was collected from
the vent fan outside the IFR [Appendix A]. This sample had a lead concentration
of 121 mg/kg, which is below the EPA residential soil screening level for lead of
400 mg/kg. On September 11,2012 an additional sample was collected from the
oil/water separator behind the main armory building. Results showed levels below
10 mglkg in the gasoline range, diesel range, and lube oil range [Appendix A]
(Ref. 4).
5.2 General Site Conditions
The McAlester Armory is a one-story building covering approximately 23 ,718 square
feet with decorative stonework and cast concrete detailing. The Armory was constructed
in 1936 by the Works Progress Administration. The property is bordered by 3rd Street
on the west, Polk Street on the south, McAlester High School on the east, and by Lee
Park to the north. The Armory has three principal facades, one accessing 3rd Street on the
Phase I TBA 21 Former McAlester Armory
McAlester, Oklahoma
)
)
west, one accessing Polk Street on the south, and one facing the shop area and Lee Park
to the north. The surrounding area is residential in nature. The OMD has ceased to
operate from the premises, and the armory was vacant at the time of the site
reconnaissance.
Phase! TBA
5.2.1 Above Ground Storage Tanks (ASTs)
No ASTs were observed on the subject property.
5.2.2 Underground Features
A review of the OCC database did not indicate the presence ofUSTs at the
subject property. Review of the Oklahoma Corporation Commission (OCC's)
and OMD's records indicated that two underground storage tanks (UST) had
previously been present at the site [Appendix G]. One 4,000 gallon tank and one
1,000 gallon tank were installed in 1981 on the northwestern side of the property
and used for the storage of gasoline. Records indicate that the tanks were removed
on December 23, 1991. The tank was rendered unusable for storage of any fluids
and the tank and its contents were disposed of in accordance with applicable local,
state, and federal regulations. OCC's records did not indicate that there had been
an incidence of a leak in the UST at the subject property. Upon removal of the
UST, soil tests were conducted for benzene, toluene, ethylbenzene, xylenes, and
TPH. All ofthe tests results were below Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)
detection limits. For the TPH test, it is undocumented as to whether this test was
for diesel range organics (DRO) or gasoline range organics (GRO).
As per information in the database, there are six UST sites, two of which are
listed as LUST cases, within a one-half mile radius of the subject property [See
Section 4.12 and 4.13 for further details].
No sumps were observed during the site reconnaissance (Ref. 4). The Armory is
served by municipal water. A fire hydrant was observed to the south of the
Armory. Water is supplied from the City of McAlester. Sewage and waste water
drain to the municipal sewer system. There were several outdoor roof drains on all
sides of the main building. There were floor drains observed in the kitchen, men's
latrine, and women's latrine during the site reconnaissance, all of which drain to
the municipal sewer system. There were no observed UST vent pipes on the
subject property [Appendix C and D].
5.2.3 Landfills and/or Dumping
There are no landfills on the subject property or adjoining properties. There was
no dumping observed either on-site or at the adjoining properties, during the site
reconnaissance. Grass appeared to be in good health along the south side of the
Armory at the time of the site reconnaissance [Appendix C). No apparent signs of
environmental contamination were observed in this area (Ref. 4).
22 Former McAlester Armory
McAlester, Oklahoma
)
Phase! TBA
5.2.4 Impoundments
No impoundments were observed on the subject property during the site
reconnaissance (Ref. 4).
5.2.5 Monitoring Wells
No monitoring wells were observed on the property at the time of the site
reconnaissance (Ref. 4). The OWRB well log viewer was utilized to make a map
of groundwater and monitoring wells within a I mile radius of the subject
property. The closest monitoring wells to the subject property are located 0.24
miles south of the subject property. All water wells located within I mile are
south of the subject property. The closest groundwater wells are within 0.42 and
0.43 miles of the subject property [Appendix A].
5.2.6 Disturbed/Stained Soil and Seeps
No stained soils or seeps were observed at the subject property during the site
reconnaissance (Ref. 4).
5.2.7 Chemical Spills
No chemical spills were observed at the subject property. No spills were reported
on the subject property from the Emergency Response Notification System
(ERNS) database (Ref26).
5.2.8 Farm Waste & Known Pesticide Misapplication
No farm waste or evidence of pesticide misapplication was observed at the subject
property during the site reconnaissance (Ref. 4).
5.2.9 Discharges and Runoff from Adjacent Property Affecting the Site
The entire area surrounding the armory is paved. The slope of the paved area is
away from the IFR.
5.2.10 Petroleum Products and Oil and Natural Gas Exploration
On September 11,2012, samples were taken from the oil/water separator behind
the main armory building and analyzed for Total Petroleum Hydrocarbons.
Results showed levels below 10 mg/kg in the gasoline range, diesel range, and
lube oil range [Appendix A]
23 Former McAlester Armory
McAlester, Oklahoma
)
)
Phasel TBA
A search of the Oklahoma Corporation Commission Well Data System did not
reveal the presence of any oil and gas production wells on the property, adjacent
property, or directly upgradient (Ref 27).
5.2.11 Asbestos
An asbestos inspection was completed at the subject property by Marshall
Environmental Management, Inc. on March 8, 2012. Results of the asbestos
inspection showed asbestos to be present in the floor tile and mastic in the main
building. Asbestos is also present in the floor-tile, mastic, bedding mud, transite,
and ceilings in outbuildings 4, 5, and 7. For a detailed description of the asbestos
inspection results, see Appendix A.
5.2.12 Lead
A statewide sampling event for lead was conducted by C.H. Guernsey &
Company for the OKARNG on all Armories containing IFRs (Ref 19). These
sampling events led to the preparation of the "Indoor Firing Range Lead Issues
Report" [Appendix F]. According to the report, the McAlester Armory was
surveyed on May 4,2005. Guernsey personnel collected wipe samples from the
IFR on May 3,2004. A sample was collected from the drill floor and one from the
stairs leading to the IFR. No wipe samples were taken within the IFR as a result
of the standing water on the floors. The IFR bullet catch system did not contain
sand [Appendix F]. Lead contamination levels found in the samples are listed
below:
• 291.6 ug/ft2 oflead at the stairs leading to the IFR (sampled 5/3/2004).
• 116.0 ug/ft2 oflead was found on the drill floor (sampled 5/3/2004).
The "Indoor Firing Range Lead Issues Report" for the McAlester Armory has
been included in Appendix F. The IFR and the rooms indicated as having lead
dust contamination exceeding the 40 fl.gl ft2 standard constitute a recognized
environmental condition (REC) for the purposes of this report.
A lead inspection was completed at the subject property by Marshall
Environmental Management, Inc. on March 8, 2012. The lead inspection
revealed lead-based paint on the armory windows, doors, parking stops, floors,
stair rails, trim, and exterior siding in both the main armory building and
outbuilding 3. Elevated levels oflead dust (>40 fl.g/ft2) were found on most of the
floors in the main armory building and on the floors of outbuildings 2, 3, and 5.
Two to three inches of standing water was present on the floor of the basement
IFR, therefore no wipe samples were taken in that room during reconnaissance.
For a detailed description of the lead inspection results, see Appendix A.
DEQ collected samples from two locations at the subject property. The first soil
sample was collected outside of the IFR vent fan on August 23,2012. Additional
24 Former McAlester Armory
McAlester, Oklahoma
)
)
Phase! TBA
samples were collected from the oil/water separator behind the main armory
building on September 11,2012. These samples were analyzed for Total
Petroleum Hydrocarbons at the DEQ laboratory. Soil collected from the IFR vent
fan area contained 121 mglkg oflead, which is below the EPA residential soil
screening level of 400 mg/kg. In addition, TPH levels in the oil/water separator
were less than 10 mg/I, which is below the DEQ residential cleanup level for TPH
of50mglkg.
5.2.13 Transformers/PCB Equipment/Mercury
Five pole-mounted transformers were present on the northeast side of the main
building. Three of the transformers appeared to be new, while the remaining two
are in relatively poor condition and are most likely the same age of the original
building structure. It is not clear whether any of the five pole-mounted
transformers contain PCBs. Fluorescent light fixtures were observed in all rooms
of the building during the site reconnaissance. These could potentially contain
PCBs (polychlorinated biphenyls) in their ballast.
All fluorescent bulbs contain mercury and should be handled as Universal Waste
unless documentation and/or sampling demonstrate they are not hazardous. In
addition, dial-type thermostats are present in the building and may contain small
amounts ofliquid mercury. They should also be handled as Universal Waste if
mercury is present.
5.2.14 Air Emissions and Wastewater Discharge
There are no CUlTent air emissions or waste water discharges from the subject
property (Ref. 4, 18).
5.2.15 Industrial Activities
There are no industrial activities currently being conducted on the subject
property. (Ref. 4) [Appendix q.
5.2.16 Hazardous Chemicals
There were no hazardous chemicals observed during site reconnaissance (Ref 4).
5.2.17 Unidentified Substance Containers
There were no unidentified substance containers observed during site
reconnaissance (Ref 4).
25 Former McAlester Armory
McAlester, Oklahoma
)
5.3 Exterior Observations
The McAlester Annory is constructed oflocally-quarried square-cut stone. Main
entryways and overhead doors are arched, and art-deco style stone and cast concrete
details are present in the facade. The main building entrance faces west and enters into
the central drill floor. Above the arched doorway metal lettering spells "McAlester
Armory 1936." Above this lettering is a sign that was installed after the 1980 armory
renovation that says, "George Nigh National Guard Armory." Large stone parapets and
original downspouts can be found on all sides of the building. Only one overhead garage
bay door remains on the west-facing main entrance of the building. The remaining six
garage bays were bricked in during the 1980 renovation, as well as all of the west-facing
ground floor windows. No obvious signs of environmental contamination were observed
on the building's exterior. The Armory is surrounded by residences, parks, and schools,
consistent with the local zoning (Ref. 4).
The McAlester armory contains five additional outbuildings that are located on state
property. One outbuilding (numbered Building 6 on the outbuilding floor plan ofthe
inspection report) was not given to the OMD through the 1967 Quit Claim Deed, thus
they remain property of the City of McAlester and will not be included in this report.
Building 7 is the largest of the outbuildings and is located directly east of the main
armory building. This building likely originated as a garage in the 1940s, as the front
single-door entrance is has been installed in a bricked-over bay door. A hallway leads
directly from the front entrance of the building to eleven separate rooms. Walls in these
rooms are largely painted drywall, painted brick, and wood veneer paneling. Brick mortar
throughout the exterior walls of the building has been heavily worn or damaged, creating
large gaps of 1-2 inches between bricks leading to the building's interior. This exposure
has also created visible damage to the carpet, tiling, drywall, and wooden structures
throughout the outbuilding.
Building 2 is a metal building located directly north of the main armory building and is
currently being used as evidence storage for the McAlester Police Department. Building
3 is a cement garage east of Building 2. It consists of one large garage area on the east
side of the building, with two smaller rooms connected on the west side of the building.
Vinyl wall paneling in this building is in very poor condition.
Building 5 is a small cinder block construction building that was likely used for weapons,
artillery, chemical, or fuel storage. There is a sign posted on the front of the building that
reads, "No smoking, matches, open flame, or spark producing devices allowed within 50
feet." The interior of the building appears to be clean and empty.
Building 4 is located on the far east portion of the property. It is constructed of wood and
transite paneling with overhead doors. The side paneling is in very poor condition. The
lead and asbestos inspection completed by Marshall Environmental Management, Inc. on
March 8, 2012 revealed the building to contain asbestos in the transite paneling. All
painted surfaces in the building contain lead-based paint [Appendix A.]
Phase ! TBA 26 Former McAlester Armory
McAlester, Oklahoma
)
5.4 Interior Observations
The armory is divided into three functional sections: a central drill floor area, the north
Calvary unit wing of offices and classrooms, and the south infantry unit offices,
classrooms, and storage areas. The drill floor is characterized by a very high vaulted
ceiling. In the 1980s a drop ceiling was added, but the lower portion of the steel trusses is
still exposed. The renovated drill floor walls are a combination of drywall coated with a
painted vinyl veneer and brick masonry, which covers the original stone work. This
continues throughout the main hallways of the building leading to the north and south
entrances. The original wood block flooring has been removed and currently consists of a
poured cement floor. At the east end of the drill floor stands a stage area that has been
built out of brick and wood. Stairwells flank both sides of the stage area and lead to
several rooms behind, including a weight room and offices. Original metal doors are
present in these rooms, although the windows have been replaced. A mercury thermostat
and furnace are also present in these rooms. Underneath the stage area lies the
subterranean indoor firing range which contains about 1-2 inches of standing water. On
the west side of the drill floor is the main entrance to the building, which consists of an
overhead garage door flanked by two glass doors which had been replaced during the
1980 remodel. To the south of the drill floor is a large hallway which leads directly to
the south entrance of the building facing Polk Street. This wing of the building also
contains a vault and equipment storage area. The walls in this room consist of the original
native stone and a window air conditioning unit that has been installed in the equipment
room window. Rooms bordering the front of the south side of the building are covered
with painted vinyl wall coverings from the 1980 remodel, and have carpet that has been
installed over 9x9 floor tile. The remaining rooms on the south wing contain wood veneer
wall paneling, 9x9 tile, and some carpeting. The men's latrine is in the far south end of
the building and contains two floor drains.
To the north, a hallway leads directly to the remainder of the armory. The doors and door
frames leading from the hallway to the rooms of the armory are original and have been
painted with lead-based paint. A vault is also present in the north portion of the armory,
as well as a main storage room. A window air conditioning unit is present in the room
containing the vault. Original windows are present in the former garage room on the
northeast side of the building, as well as 9x9 floor tile and an original door. The offices
on the northwest side of the armory have windows that were installed during the 1980
renovation, as well as a window air conditioning unit installed in a closet. A women's
latrine on the far north end of the building contains one floor drain. Double doors lead
from the drill floor north to the former garage, which has been renovated to be the mess
hall. It appears that the double doors at the entry to the mess hall have been built in a
location of a former bay door. There is a floor drain in the preparation area of the kitchen.
During the site reconnaissance, no piping insulation was observed, although an inspection
into areas not easily accessible was not completed. This type of piping, along with
window mastic and specific tiles often used in armories of this age may contain asbestos
and may exist within this armory. A specialized asbestos inspection was not completed
Phase I TBA 27 Former McAlester Armory
McAlester, Oklahoma
)
)
during this site visit. However, Marshall Environmental Management conducted an
asbestos inspection of the buildings on the subject property on December 27, 20 II .
5.5 Interviews
Phase I TBA
5.5.1 Interviews with Past and Present Owners of the Property
DEQ has had several conversations regarding environmental and safety issues at
the armories, with various employees of the military department. The Oklahoma
Military Department provided an "Indoor Firing Range Lead Issues Report" to the
DEQ [Appendix F]. OMD also provided DEQ with access to their files on the
McAlester Armory.
5.5.2 Interviews with Key Site Manager
There is no current key site manager for the property. Mr. Mel Priddy,
Community Services Director, and Pete Stasiak, City Manager, City of
McAlester, currently control access to the property. They were interviewed in
order to gain the appropriate information for this report. The property is
occasionally entered by city employees who use the subject property for storage.
5.5.3 Interviews with Operators and Occupants of the Property
An interview was not conducted with a prior operator or occupant of the property,
as one was not available during the time in which this Phase I TBA was being
conducted.
5.5.4 Interviews with State and/or Local Government Officials
On August 5, 2012, Rebecca Marfurt, Alea Smith, Liberty Galvin, and 10hnathan
McClary of the DEQ met Mel Priddy, Community Services Director for the City
of McAlester, at the McAlester Armory. Mr. Priddy introduced Marfurt, Smith,
Galvin, and McClary to the subject property and answered questions to the best of
his knowledge on the subject property. Priddy led DEQ personnel inside the
building and outbuildings and gave his knowledge about what the building was
used for and what kinds of activities occurred there in the past. All areas ofthe
building were observed noting any environmental conditions that might need.
• All sewage and waste water drain to the City of McAlester's sewage system.
• To Mr. Priddy's knowledge, no underground storage tanks were present
onsite.
• The military had vacated the Armory in the latter part of 20 10.
• It was unknown as to what type of vehicle work was done in the motor pool
areas.
28 Former McAlester Armory
McAlester, Oklahoma
)
)
6.0 Findings
This Phase I Targeted Brownfield Assessment of the McAlester Armory was performed
in accordance with the ASTM E 1527-05, a guide for conducting Environmental Site
Assessments. The subject property is located in Section 31, Township 6 North, and Range 15
East SE ~, SW ~, in Pittsburg County, Oklahoma. The subject property address is 319 East Polk
Avenue [at the southwest comer of3rd and Polk streets] McAlester, 74502 [latitude 34.943280,
longitude -95.761202] Summarized below are the major environmental findings of this Phase I
TBA [See relevant sections of this report for further details on each finding].
• Review of OCC's and OMD's records indicated that two USTs had previously
been present at the subject property [Appendix G]. One 4,000 gallon tank and one
1,000 gallon tank were installed reportedly in 1981 on the northwestern side of
the property and used for the storage of gasoline. Records indicate that the tank
was removed on December 23, 1991. The tank was rendered unusable for storage
of any fluids and the tank and its contents were disposed of in accordance with
applicable local, state, and federal regulations. OCC's records did not indicate that
there had been an incidence of a leak in the UST at the subject property. Upon
removal ofthe UST, soil tests were conducted for benzene, toluene, ethylbenzene,
xylenes, and TPH. All of the tests results were below EPA detection limits. For
the TPH test, it is undocumented as to whether this test was for DRO or GRO.
• No sites on the NPL, deleted NPL database, active or archived Comprehensive
Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Information System
(CERCLIS) database, RCRA database, ERNS list, State Voluntary Cleanup
Program and State Brownfield Programs lists were identified on the subject
property. The subject property is on the DEQ Site Cleanup Assistance Program 's
list for investigation and cleanup of environmental hazards.
• The DEQ database of historic dry cleaners was searched and yellowpages.com
was searched for present day dry cleaners within 1 mile of the subject property.
12 historic dry cleaners and 3 present day dry cleaners were found. The closest
historic dry cleaner is located 0.57 miles southwest of the subject property. The
closest present day dry cleaner is located 0.80 miles southwest of the subject
property. The dry cleaners are considered potential environmental conditions
(PECs) according to ASTM 1528-06. For more infonnation about the dry
cleaners within 1 mile of the subject property, refer to Appendix A.
• Five pole-mounted transformers were present on the northeast side of the main
building. Three of the transformers appeared to be new, while the remaining two
are in relatively poor condition and are most likely the same age of the original
building structure. It is not clear whether any of the five pole-mounted
transformers contain PCBs. Fluorescent light fixtures were observed in all rooms
of the building during the site reconnaissance. These could potentially contain
PCBs (polychlorinated biphenyls) in their ballast.
Phase ] TBA 29 Former McAlester Armory
McAlester, Oklahoma
)
)
• Fluorescent lighting ballasts are located throughout the building. The lighting
ballasts are all in good condition. The lighting ballasts as well as dial type
thennostats may be a source of mercury.
• There were no areas of stained soil, pits, ponds or lagoons, wells, septic systems,
wells, pump jacks, storage tanks, drums observed on the subject property during
the site reconnaissance (Ref. 4).
• The Annory is immediately bound by residential structures on all sides (Ref. 4)
7.0 Opinion and Recommendations
Due to the past use of the property and potential contamination found on the subject property, the
environmental professionals working on this site believe that cleanup oflead and asbestos will be
necessary.
8.0 Data Gaps
Property tax files, city directories, and building development records for the subject property
were not reviewed during the preparation of this report. No tribal records were reviewed for this
report.
9.0 Conclusions
DEQ has perfonned a Phase I Targeted Brownfield Assessment in conformance with the scope
and limitations of ASTM Practice E 1527-05 of the McAlester Armory, located at 319 East Polk
Ave., McAlester, Oklahoma (Section 15, Township l6N, Range 7W LM., in McAlester County,
Oklahoma), the property. Any exceptions to, or deletions from, this practice are described in
Sections 8.0 and 11.0 of this report. This assessment has revealed no evidence of recognized
environmental conditions in connection with the property except for the following: lead-based
paint, lead dust, and asbestos.
The information provided in this assessment is to assist the City of McAlester in its revitalization
planning as well as meet the All Appropriate Inquiry requirement of the landowner liability
protections under the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation and Liability Act
(CERCLA, better known as Superfund - Ref. 2), as provided in the Small Business Relief and
Brownfields Revitalization Act of2002 (Public Law 107-118, Subtitle B - Ref. 3).
10.0 Additional Services
Additional services provided for this Phase I Targeted Brownfield Assessment include sampling
of soil outside of the IFR vent fan, the oil/water separator, potential asbestos, lead-based paint,
and lead dust sources including the remediation of the building [Appendix AJ.
Phase /TBA 30 Former McAlester Armory
McAlester, Oklahoma
)
)
11.0 Deviations
The following deviations from ASTM Practice E 1527-05 occur in this Phase I Targeted
Brownfield Assessment. Tribal environmental lists, property tax files, city directories, and
building development records for the subject property were not reviewed during the preparation
of this report.
12.0 References
I. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. (2006). Oklahoma Brownfields Assistance
Agreement (No. RP9668 I 001-0). Oklahoma City, State of Oklahoma. Unpublished
Document.
2. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. (1980). Comprehensive Environmental
Response, Compensation, and Liability Act. (Public Law 96-510). Washington, DC:
U.S. Government Printing Office.
3. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. (2002). Small Business Liability Relief and
Brownfields Revitalization Act. (Public Law 107-118, Subtitle B). Washington, DC:
U.S. Government Printing Office.
4. Liberty Galvin, Rebecca Marfurt (2012). Field Notes for Site Reconnaissance of the
McAlester Armory. August 28, 2012 and September II, 2012. Unpublished Document.
5. C. F. Fisher, G. E. Williams, l.R. Culver, F.W. Clark, l.V. Chelf. (1970). U.S.
Department of Agriculture, Soil Conservation Service: Soil Survey, Pittsburg County,
Oklahoma. Series 1959, No. 12. Issued May 1971.
6. R.H. Bingham, R.L. Moore (1983). Oklahoma Geological Survey. Reconnaissance of the
Water Resources of the McAlester and Texarkana Quadrangles, Southeastern Oklahoma,
Hydrological Atlas 9. The University of Oklahoma, Norman, OK. [Scale 1:250,000]. 1983.
7. Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). FEMA Issued Flood Maps. Last accessed
April 9, 2013. https://msc.fema.gov.
8. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. EPA NPL list. Last accessed April 9, 2013.
httn://www.epa.gov/superfund/sites/nplliocate.htm.
9. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. EPA Deleted NPL list. Last accessed April 9, 2013.
httn://www.epa.gov/superfund/sites/guerv/gueryhtm/npldel.htm#Oklahoma
10. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. EPA Partially Deleted NPL list. Last accessed April
9, 2013. http://www.epa.gov/superfund/sites/guery/gueryhtmlnplpdel.htm#Oklahoma
11. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. EPA Proposed NPL. Last accessed April 9, 2013.
http://www.epa.gov/superfund/sites/guery/gueryhtm/nplprop.htm#Oklahoma
Phase! TBA 31 Former McAlester Armory
McAlester, Oklahoma
)
12. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. EPA CERCLIS current and archived sites. Last
accessed April 9, 2013. http://cfpub.epa.gov/supercpad/cursites/srchsites.cfm.
13. National Response Center. Emergency Response Notification System. Last accessed April 9,
2013. http://www.nrc.uscg.miVfoia.html.
14. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. RCRA Info. Last accessed April 9, 2013.
http://www.epa.gov/enviroihtml/rcris/rcris query java.html.
IS. Oklahoma Department of Environmental Quality. RCRA NOTIFIERS sorted by county and
then city. Last accessed April 9,2013.
http://www.deg .state.ok.us/LPDnew/HW 1N0tifiers/notifiersbycountycity.pdf.
16. Oklahoma Department of Environmental Quality. State Landfill site list.Last accessed April
9,2013. http://www.deg.state.ok.us/LpDnew/swindex.html.
17. DEQ SCAP website: http://www.deg.state.ok.us/LPDnew/scapIndex.htm.
18. DEQ Dataviewer: http://maps.scigis.com/deg%5Fwg/.
19. Guernsey, C.H. & Company (2005), OklallOma Army National Guard. Indoor Firing
Range Lead Issues Report. Unpublished Document.
20. Oklahoma Water Resources Board. http://www.owrb.state.ok.us/wd/search/search.php.
21. ASTM International. (2005). Standard Practice for Environmental Site Assessments:
Phase I Environmental Site Assessment Process. E 1527 - 05.
22. Oklahoma Corporation Commission. Public Utilities Division List of Regulated
Companies. http://www.occeweb.com/divisions/pud/utbycity.htm.
23. City of McAlester: http://www.cityofmcalester.com/index.aspx?nid=190
24. USGS National Geochemical Survey:
http://tin.er.usgs.gov/geochem/doc/averages/countydata.htm.
25. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Geographic Information System Data Set:
http://www.epa.gov/region6/gis/datalkml fileslindex.htm.
26. National Response Center. Emergency Response Notification System.
http://www.nrc.uscg.mil/foia.html.
27. Oklahoma Corporation Commission Oil and Gas New Well Browse Database:
www.occeweb.com.
Phase/TEA 32 Former McAlester Armory
McAlester, Oklahoma
)
)
28. Oklahoma Department of Environmental Quality. DEQ historical dlY cleaner databases.
DEQ Archives.
29. YP Intellectual Property LLC. YP -Yellow pages. com. Last accessed April 17,2013.
http://www.yellowpages.com/
30. ASTM International. (2006). Standard Practice for Limited Environmental Due Diligence:
Transaction Screen Process. E 1528-06.
13.0 Appendices
I Qualifications of Environmental Professional and Others Working on the Project
Rebecca Marfurt - Rebecca Marfurt holds a Bachelor's Degree in Environmental Sciences
from Southwestern University at Georgetown, Texas, a Master's Degree in Aquatic Resources
from Texas State University - San Marcos, and a Postbaccalaureate Certificate in Geographic
Information Systems from Penn State University. She has three and a half years of experience at
DEQ as an Environmental Programs Specialist in Water Quality Division and Land Protection
Division.
Liberty Galvin - Liberty Galvin is finishing her Bachelor's degree in Environmental Sciences at
Oklahoma State University. During her time at the DEQ she has attended and completed the
course on Phase I-II Environmental Site Assessments, and has the knowledge needed to perform
targeted brownfield assessments.
Johnathan McClary - Johnathan McClary is an undergraduate student at the University of
Oklahoma. Mr. McClary has two years of experience at the Oklahoma Department of
Environmental Quality. He is a Technical Assistant with the Land Protection Division of the
Oklahoma Department of Environmental Quality.
Alea Thacker - Alea Thacker holds a Masters Degree in Environmental Science from the
University of Oklahoma. She served as a Technical Assistant for the Land Protection Division of
the DEQ for several months. She currently worked in the DEQ Air Quality Division as an
Environmental Programs Specialist.
Heather Mallory - Heather Mallory holds a Bachelor's and Master's Degree in Environmental
Science from the University of Oklahoma. Mrs. Mallory has nine years of experience in
environmental sampling and remediation. She is an Environmental Programs Specialist with the
Land Protection Division of the DEQ. Her responsibilities include: Brownfields Revolving Loan
Fund and Grant Coordinator, Targeted Brownfield Assessment Coordinator, project management
of various Voluntary Cleanup sites across the state, conducting and reviewing Targeted
Brownfield Assessments, serving on agency-wide GIS policy making committee, and training
DEQ Land Protection Division staff on GPS receivers.
Phase I TBA 33 Former McAlester ArmOlY
McAlester, Oklahoma
)
14.0 Background and Disclaimer
The purpose of an environmental site assessment is to identify actual or potential "recognized
environmental conditions" that may result in liability or land use restrictions. The ASTM Phase I
Environmental Site Assessment E 1527 - 05 is the minimum standard for environmental due
diligence in the commercial real estate industry and meets the standard for All Appropriate
Inquiry under the Small Business Liability Relief and Brownfields Revitalization Act of 2002. A
diligent effort in accordance with generally accepted good commercial and customary standards
and practices was undertaken to identify the "recognized environmental conditions" that might
affect the redevelopment project. However, the identification of old hazardous waste sites is an
evolving process; therefore, DEQ cannot state with absolute certainty that no other potential
hazardous waste sites are located in the area. In no event shall the DEQ or its employees be
liable for any damages, injury, loss, cost or expense whatsoever arising in connection with the
use or reliance on the information contained in this report, except as otherwise provided by law.
Phase ] TBA 34 Former McAlester Armory
McAlester, Oklahoma