Fred Meyer plans to resurface the asphalt parking lot in July. This is being done in conjunction with their interior remodeling work.
In order to learn about the appropriate oversight to protect nearby Lincoln Creek (which also runs under FM) and control the pollution entering the storm water drains, Gaythia checked with the Bellingham Public Works Department and the Washington State Department of Ecology. Fortunately, the most harmful sealants, coal tars, are now illegal in Washington State: https://fortress.wa.gov/ecy/publications/summarypages/1104021.html.
Here is the Bellingham Public Works response to Gaythia's inquiry:
Thank you for your e-mail. The surfacing project that you refer to sounds like a crack sealing emulsion that is spread over the parking lot. You are correct that products like this do need to be applied in dry conditions. Companies using products such as this are required to meet the application requirements including not getting product into any water system or source.
I too have been concerned about these emulsions in the past. Some time ago, the Department of Ecology provided a specific warning about the use of coal tar sealants. Those specific sealants have issues after being applied. They have high wash off rates of PAHs (petroleum aromatic hydrocarbons) even after drying per manufacturers recommendations. We conducted a survey of all of the parking lot sealant companies in the area to assure ourselves that no one was using this type of sealant. To date, we have had no issues with that material being used in our area. It seems to be a problem in other parts of the country where coal tar may be more available.
I am fairly certain that this application is not going to be a problem and that Fred Meyer will be using a reputable contractor experienced with the material. Nonetheless, I will have one of our inspectors visit the site, review their product information and gain assurance that their contractor is fully knowledgeable regarding the proper application of the product.
William M. Reilly
Storm and Surface Water Utility Manager
