Brownfields 101
What is a brownfield?
The EPA defines a brownfield as a “property, the expansion, redevelopment, or reuse of which may be complicated by the presence or potential presence of a hazardous substance, pollutant, or contaminant.”
We define environmental risk in real estate development as: the effect of uncertainty about an existing release, a past release, or a threat of a release of hazardous substances or petroleum on development objectives.
We like to say, most properties, especially in dense urban settings, are brownfields until proven “not guilty.” We classify brownfields first by thinking of the “potential presence” of contamination, which could include hazardous building materials, storage of chemicals, or simply an unknown historic use of the property. Starting with this broader lens of what a brownfield can be enables us to include more properties in brownfields planning. This approach also brings the evaluation of environmental risk into the early visioning and planning stages of a project. Common brownfield examples include abandoned gas stations, closed factories, and former dry cleaners, but they can also be vacant lots, hospitals, schools, and historic buildings. One of our favorite stories of creative brownfield redevelopment comes from our friends at the Pulaski County Brownfields Program - check out their video of the USS Hoga Project!
Why should I care about brownfields?
Because environmental cleanup can be extremely expensive (sometimes $1M+), private and public investors often avoid redeveloping brownfields. However, without this investment in brownfields, these properties become a strain on an area’s tax base and inhibit economic growth. Environmental Justice communities typically have an abundance of brownfields which exacerbate economic distress and health disparities linked to environmental contamination like asthma, cancer, and neurological issues. These health disparities compound dramatically with social determinants of health, including inequitable access to healthcare, fresh food, and safe housing.
Although brownfields redevelopment is tricky, we believe it’s worth it! There are so many benefits to brownfields – here are our top three:
Cleanup! Redevelopment is an opportunity to assess environmental conditions and cleanup contamination through the development process.
Authentic. Brownfields possess a story and when that story can be honored and preserved through the rebirth of the property, the resulting development becomes an authentic experience and places that bring community together.
Inclusive. Environmental justice and the meaningful involvement of the community in brownfields redevelopment is an opportunity to reclaim land and address community need, including climate vulnerability, housing security, food access, and so much more!
Are you thinking about starting a brownfields redevelopment program?
These can give you an idea of the federal program and resources to help you navigate the process:
