Brownfields Resources
Educational materials, guides, and resources for understanding brownfield assessment, cleanup, and redevelopment.
Understanding Brownfields
What is a Brownfield?
An overview of brownfield properties and their impact on communities
A brownfield is a property that may be complicated by the presence or potential presence of hazardous substances, pollutants, or contaminants. These properties can be challenging to redevelop due to concerns about liability and cleanup costs.
Environmental Assessment Process
Understanding Phase I and Phase II Environmental Site Assessments
Environmental site assessments are critical steps in the brownfield redevelopment process. Learn about Phase I assessments (historical research and visual inspections) and Phase II assessments (sampling and analysis).
Educational Videos
Frequently Asked Questions
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After a site is nominated, our team reviews the information provided and conducts preliminary research. If the site meets certain criteria, we reach out to the property owner to discuss potential assessment activities. If the property owner agrees, we conduct a Phase I Environmental Site Assessment to identify potential environmental concerns.
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Yes! Anyone can nominate a potential brownfield site, including community members, local officials, and neighboring property owners. We work with property owners to secure access for assessment activities, but the nomination can come from any concerned citizen.
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No, there is no cost to property owners for site assessments conducted through our EPA-funded Brownfields Assessment Program. The program is designed to help property owners understand environmental conditions on their property, which can be a significant barrier to redevelopment.