Owner/Client: Somach, Simmons & Dunn, LLP
The California Building Standards Commission proposed to adopt new state plumbing code regulations that would remove the prohibition against the use of cross-linked polyethylene (PEX) tubing, a type of plastic pipe, from the California Plumbing Code. Implementation of the proposed project would allow the statewide use of PEX for hot and cold water distribution applications (including potable water) under the jurisdiction of the Building Standards Commission and the five responsible agencies that adopt regulations. An EIR prepared by the Commission in May 2008 was the subject to litigation and was found by the court to require additional analysis. In response to the Court direction, Ascent prepared the second revised draft and final EIR to assist the Commission with making a decision on allowing PEX plastic pipe for domestic water plumbing applications into the California Plumbing Code. The revised draft EIR addressed the court decision with additional analysis of potential health risks, taste and odor impacts, and the possibility of premature pipe failure. The Final EIR was certified in 2011 and accepted by the court as adequate in 2012.