The EPA has awarded half a million dollars to a coalition representing Eugene-Springfield and Lane County, for possible clean-up of former or potential business sites. KLCC’s Brian Bull reports.
The Brownfield Assessments Grant follows one given in 2012, that’ll further fund the evaluation and rehabilitation of sites that may have environmental contaminants.
Amanda D’Souza, business development analyst for the city of Eugene, gives some examples.
“Former lumber mills, would definitely qualify," she tells KLCC. "Car dealerships, or car repair shops often leave contamination. We get a lot of former gas stations.”
Sarah Means, Lane County's Economic Development Manager, says there’s potential for sustainable reuse and redevelopment of approved sites through the Brownfield Coalition’s efforts.
“We really want to be able to have land available to business to either grow or relocate here in the county, and by being able to at least take the initial steps to clean up in some of these areas, we’re really helping our economy.”
People with commercial property that could be cleaned-up for future re-use are encouraged to contact their respective city government.
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