Communities with brownfield redevelopment see many successes, advantages

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) defines a brownfield as a property where redevelopment, expansion or reuse is complicated by the presence of a hazardous substance, pollutant or contaminant. These properties can range from small, abandoned gas stations to large industrial sites. When abandoned or neglected, brownfields can pose public health risks, suppress property values and stunt economic growth.

Through initiatives like the EPA's Brownfield Program and partnerships with experienced environmental and engineering firms like Fehr Graham, community leaders can overcome the challenges of brownfield sites. With proper remediation and redevelopment, brownfields provide opportunities for environmental restoration and community improvements.

Brownfield redevelopment benefits

Brownfield redevelopment brings multiple benefits to communities, businesses and the environment.

• Environmental benefits: Redevelopment helps limit environmental contamination caused by the presence of heavy metals, hazardous chemicals, volatile organic compounds, and others at brownfield sites. Redevelopment can help reduce urban sprawl by repurposing sites rather than developing greenfield sites, consequently conserving resources.
• Economical benefits: Redevelopment can generate jobs, attract investment and raise property values.
• Fiscal benefits: Redevelopment can also provide fiscal benefits such as increasing the tax base, generating revenue for local governments and reducing the costs associated with maintaining vacant or underused properties.

However, redevelopment also comes with challenges, such as government regulations, funding limitations and lengthy cleanup processes. That’s where experienced partners like Fehr Graham come in – we help navigate regulations, secure funding and guide projects to successful outcomes.

How EPA brownfield grant helps transform brownfields

The EPA's brownfield program offers grants to help communities assess, clean up and remediate contaminated sites. Grants are available to local governments, nonprofit organizations and other stakeholders who want to transform blighted properties into economic assets.

Community leaders can use brownfield grants to reduce environmental contamination risks and speed up the redevelopment process. Funding can be used for environmental site assessments, cleanup efforts and redevelopment planning. Grants can also fund infrastructure improvements.

Brownfield redevelopment examples

Fehr Graham has played a significant role in brownfield redevelopment in Illinois. We've highlighted some EPA success stories and projects below where Fehr Graham's expertise in environmental engineering, site assessment and grant management has helped to achieve successful outcomes.

How Fehr Graham can help create successful brownfield redevelopment 

Fehr Graham brings years of experience in brownfield redevelopment. Our team of experts can provide customized solutions to address contamination, secure and manage grant funding, and manage projects from initial planning through completion.

We can support your next project with the following services:

• ESAs.
• Underground Storage Tank assessments.
• Soil and groundwater investigations.
• Remediation planning and oversight.
• Grant writing and management.

We're proud of our efforts in Illinois and surrounding states. Check out our brownfield redevelopment projects and more information here.

Partner with Fehr Graham

At Fehr Graham, we are committed to helping communities remediate brownfield sites with strategic planning, remediation and funding support. Our team of environmental experts and licensed geologists will work closely with community leaders to help fund and navigate complex redevelopment projects that also meet strict regulatory requirements.

By partnering with Fehr Graham and leveraging our expertise, you can be assured your brownfield project will comply with local regulations and transform neglected properties into revitalized assets that benefit your community.