GZA Retained for PFAS Investigation and Remediation at Former Barnstable County Fire Training Facility
GZA GeoEnvironmental, Inc. (GZA), a leading multi-disciplinary firm specializing in environmental, ecological, water, geotechnical, and construction management services, has been retained by Barnstable County, Massachusetts, to conduct a comprehensive investigation and remediation of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) at the former Municipal Fire Training facility in Hyannis. GZA was selected following a competitive bidding process, reflecting the firm’s extensive experience and technical capabilities in addressing complex environmental challenges.
The site, encompassing roughly six acres off South Flint Rock Road in the Town of Barnstable’s village of Hyannis, served as a critical training location for first responders across Cape Cod and eastern Massachusetts. The facility was active from 1956 to 2019, providing hands-on training to fire and emergency personnel. For approximately four decades, training activities included the use of aqueous film-forming foams (AFFF), which contained PFAS compounds brought on-site by various users. AFFF training ceased at the site in 2013, yet residual PFAS contamination in soil and groundwater remains a concern.
Comprehensive Phase II Site Assessment
GZA’s work at the former facility includes a detailed Phase II Site Assessment designed to evaluate the nature, concentration, and spatial distribution of PFAS chemicals at the property. The assessment incorporates hydrogeologic investigations, groundwater sampling, and the evaluation of site-specific remediation options. The goal is to develop a data-driven strategy that ensures effective mitigation while minimizing cost and disruption to the surrounding community.
A critical component of GZA’s strategy involved pilot testing a Colloidal Activated Carbon (CAC) permeable reactive barrier (PRB). This innovative remediation technology is designed to intercept PFAS-contaminated groundwater and prevent further migration off-site. Following successful pilot testing, a full-scale PRB was installed late in 2025 downgradient from the facility. Early monitoring data indicate the system is functioning effectively, providing an important layer of protection for surrounding water resources.
Barnstable County Administrator Michael Dutton emphasized the value of GZA’s approach, stating, “GZA’s data-driven and technical approach has helped us better understand the complexity of the site and surrounding groundwater conditions, and identify effective, cost-conscious remediation strategies. Based on their recommendations, a permeable reactive barrier was installed downgradient of the facility in October 2025. Early monitoring results are encouraging and indicate the system is performing as intended.”
Public Engagement and Community Involvement
GZA is also actively engaged in public outreach to ensure transparency and community involvement throughout the investigation and remediation process. In collaboration with Barnstable County, the firm organizes and leads a series of public meetings to update residents, business owners, and other stakeholders on progress, address questions, and respond to concerns regarding PFAS contamination and mitigation strategies.
This proactive engagement is part of GZA’s broader commitment to protecting both the environment and public health. By fostering open communication, the firm helps build trust between government authorities, the community, and environmental professionals working on the site.
Expertise in PFAS Remediation
GZA’s leadership in PFAS remediation reflects the growing need to manage the risks associated with “forever chemicals,” which are highly persistent in the environment and have been linked to potential health impacts. Patrick Sheehan, President and CEO of GZA, highlighted the firm’s focus, stating, “Identifying, mitigating, and neutralizing the risks posed by the ‘forever chemicals’ known as PFAS is a major focus of GZA’s engineers and environmental professionals. We look forward to continuing to work closely with the Barnstable County government and our partners to support the County in its efforts to investigate and remediate the former Municipal Fire Training Facility and protect the municipal water supplies and public health of Barnstable and Cape Cod.”
Murphy and his team bring extensive expertise in environmental engineering, hydrogeology, and remediation technologies, allowing them to provide a tailored approach that addresses the unique characteristics of each site. The firm’s use of cutting-edge solutions such as Colloidal Activated Carbon PRBs underscores its commitment to innovative, science-driven remediation practices.
Protecting Groundwater and Public Health
The former Municipal Fire Training Facility sits in a critical area for municipal water resources. PFAS contamination, if left unmanaged, poses a risk to local groundwater and public water systems, making timely intervention essential. GZA’s phased assessment and remediation strategy is designed to mitigate these risks effectively.
Through careful monitoring and adaptive management, the firm ensures that the PRB and other remediation efforts continue to perform optimally. This approach not only addresses current contamination but also prevents future spread, safeguarding both the environment and public health in the region.
A Model for Environmental Stewardship
GZA’s engagement at the Barnstable County site exemplifies its broader commitment to environmental stewardship, community engagement, and innovative problem-solving. By combining technical expertise with a collaborative approach, the firm provides clients with actionable insights and effective solutions tailored to their specific challenges.
The project serves as a model for other municipalities and organizations facing PFAS contamination, demonstrating how science-based strategies, advanced remediation technologies, and proactive public involvement can work together to protect natural resources and communities.
Continuing Work and Future Plans
GZA remains actively involved in ongoing assessment, monitoring, and remediation activities at the former fire training site. The firm will continue to refine its strategies based on monitoring results, ensuring that the remediation measures remain effective over time. As the project progresses, Barnstable County residents and stakeholders can expect continued updates and opportunities for engagement, reflecting the shared goal of protecting public health and preserving the environment for future generations.
Through this partnership, GZA is reinforcing its position as a trusted leader in environmental consulting and remediation, providing innovative solutions for some of the most challenging contamination issues facing communities today.
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