ETCOG Press Release | The East Texas Council of Governments is calling on cities and communities across the region to nominate potential Brownfield sites for assessment and revitalization as part of a new initiative to support sustainable development and environmental stewardship.
A Brownfield is any property, typically abandoned, underused, or industrial, that may be complicated by the presence or potential presence of hazardous substances, pollutants, or contaminants. Through ETCOG’s Brownfield Assessment Program, local governments and property owners may receive free environmental assessments to determine site conditions and open the door to redevelopment opportunities.
SUBMIT A NOMINATION HERE: https://www.etcog.org/brownfield-site-nominations
ETCOG was awarded a U.S. EPA Brownfield Coalition Assessment Grant in 2023, so our region could access up to $1 million in funding to:
- Develop an inventory of Brownfield sites
- Conduct Phase I and Phase II Environmental Site Assessments (ESAs)
- Evaluate sites impacted by hazardous substances or petroleum
- Perform site investigations, asbestos, and lead-based paint surveys
- Plan for cleanup and reuse strategies
Benefits of Brownfield Redevelopment Include:
- Increased property values
- Enhanced public health and environmental safety
- New job creation and business development
- Reuse of existing infrastructure
- Elimination of blight and community eyesores
Participation is completely voluntary, and all eligible activities could be covered at no cost to property owners. Communities are encouraged to take advantage of this opportunity to address challenging properties and bring new life to underutilized areas.
If you know of a site in your city that may be a candidate for Brownfield revitalization, please contact:
Bridget Booty, Economic Development Specialist
(903) 218-6421
Bridget.Booty@etcog.org
