danger: construction zone

Today was the first day the contractor was on site to begin construction on the Center of Hope.  Slater & Son's crew secured the perimeter of the site with chain link fence and installed specialized fencing around the trees and other environmentally sensitive areas. 

They put up the high visibility orange fence to create a buffer around the trees to protect them.  The darker colored, semi-solid fence is to stop silt and other run-off from leaving the site.  All of this is required in order to remain in compliance with the permits we're working under.  Protecting the environment during construction is not only a requirement but it's the right thing to do.  To make sure we do it right, we have a consultant and he was on site today.

Our environmental consultant, Jonathan from Foster Consulting, has been helping us prepare for the environmental portion of construction for almost two years.  He has completed site surveys and ensured that we met all the requirements of the state and federal governments in regards to the Clean Water Act, Endangered Species Act, and other regulations.  Jonathan was on site today to inspect the trees and talk with Jackson, the construction superintendent.  Jonathan and Jackson confirmed placement of the protective fencing and noted which trees were identified as needing to be removed since they sit inside the footprint of the building. 

At the end of one day, the construction site was secured and the environment was protected.  Tuesday tree removal will begin and, just a reminder to everyone, there will be a groundbreaking ceremony tomorrow at 3:00pm.  You are invited and we hope to see you there!

A big thank you to Jonathan at Foster Consulting for helping us stay in compliance with all of the state and federal environmental regulations!