Several articles about brownfield redevelopment have appeared in various newspapers across the state in recent weeks. While the publicity and conversation these articles generate advance the issue in a positive direction, they could leave readers with unanswered questions — like, is there funding, how much, is remediation a priority or merely a goal to which the state aspires?
Let me try to set the record straight.
Brownfields have and will continue to be a priority for this administration. Last year Gov. M. Jodi Rell signed PA 06-184 that established the Office of Brownfield Remediation and Development, a centralized resource for brownfields funding and information.
Just last week, this new office was awarded a $1 million grant from the federal Environmental Protection Agency for remediation projects statewide. This is in addition to other EPA dollars already received for Hartford brownfield remediation projects.
These accomplishments in a short time show the type of support directed to responsible growth initiatives such as brownfield revitalization.
That being said, the state still has much to accomplish and there will be continued funding to ensure progress on these efforts. However, it’s simply too early to say how much at this point because the budget is still being negotiated.
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Bringing Properties Back
What is certain at this moment is the state’s commitment to revitalizing abandoned and underutilized former manufacturing sites. This is important to everyone, whether you’re a suburbanite or urbanite, a conservationist or entrepreneur, a Democrat or Republican.
There has long been bipartisan support on this issue because there can’t be a serious discussion about economic growth and comprehensive development without brownfields being a major consideration.
Traditionally, brownfield sites are concentrated in urban areas — the historic centers of industry and commerce. However, these sites are also present throughout the state, especially in our former mill communities. Cleaning up and reinvesting in these properties not only addresses land and public health issues, but helps take pressure off undeveloped, open spaces. By addressing these issues, we can both improve and protect the environment and quality of life for all of our residents.
Healthy land attracts healthy business. Healthy business attracts employees. These employees pay taxes, buy homes, shop locally and contribute to Connecticut’s economy.
This is smart growth. This is responsible growth.
And this is an integral piece of Gov. Rell’s and my focus on economic and community development, which is why her proposed budget included $10 million for a brownfields pilot program with and additional $5 million for revolving loan programs.
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Aid Is Essential
Towns and cities across the state should be applauded for their determination to clean up brownfield sites and make them attractive to potential developers. But they need help. It is the state’s responsibility to stand with municipal officials to ensure these policy goals are met.
One of people’s biggest complaints is that government agencies don’t talk to each other and know what each other is doing. That’s why the Office of Brownfield Remediation and Development was created. This office will streamline and coordinate the interactions of the Department of Economic and Community Development, Department of Environmental Protection, Connecticut Development Authority and other state agencies to ensure successful remediation and redevelopment efforts.
Gov. Rell and I are working to make sure municipalities know that when they are talking smart, responsible growth, the Office of Brownfield Remediation and Development is their ally.
We will continue our efforts and look forward to working with the legislature on this issue. Everyone in state government understands that not funding brownfield redevelopment and remediation efforts is bad for business. And if it’s bad for business then it’s bad for Connecticut.
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Michael Fedele is lieutenant governor of Connecticut.
