Why Redevelop Brownfields?

brownfields2011.org

            Brownfields “are abandoned or underused properties where there may be environmental contamination. Redevelopment efforts are often hindered by the liability for the cleanup or the uncertainty of cleanup costs” (Sturdevant). Blocks of brownfields can be found in most cities in the form of vacant factories, gas stations, parking lots, warehouses, residential sites, and many more types of facilities. Brownfields may lead you to think of dirty, dilapidated, industrial properties, but that is a common misconception. While some brownfields are in fact old industrial sites, others are residential and commercial buildings and landscapes with diminutive or no environmental contamination.

How do Brownfields Impact a Community?

Brownfields can:

• Harm human health and the environment
• Limit job growth, economic development and tax revenue
• Reduce surrounding property values
• Contribute to neighborhood crime (Sturdevant)

http://www.talladega.com/brownfields_grant_public_meeting_2.htm

What are the Benefits of Brownfield Redevelopment?

•      Cleans up the local environment – reduces the possibility of air and water pollution and soil contamination

•      Creates jobs and fosters new investments in the community

•      Increases the productivity of the land

•      Encourages urban revitalization

•      Eliminates eyesores

•      Urban and suburban sprawl deterrent

Obstacles to Redevelopment

•      Concerns regarding contamination

•      Redevelopment requires substantial investment in time and money

•      Legal costs and liability

•      Must meet state, federal, and EPA standards

http://www.seirpc.com/Brownfields/brownfields_openingpage.html

      I definitely think that brownfields should be restored and integrated back into a community. It makes no sense not to make good use of all available space in a community, especially if it means avoiding outward expansion into natural areas.

Citation(s):

     Sturdevant, Ted. "Brownfields | Toxics Cleanup Program | Washington                                   

            Department of Ecology." Washington State Department of Ecology

           | Home Page | ECY WA DOE. Web. 04 Aug. 2011.         

           <http://www.ecy.wa.gov/programs/tcp/brownfields/brownfields_hp.html>.