Connecticut Governor Dannel P. Malloy has announced that his administration and the Connecticut Department of Economic and Community Development (DECD) are currently accepting applications to receive funding to address the remediation of historically significant brownfield sites. The state has received $1,698,400 in assessment grants to support projects aimed at restoring economic vitality to Connecticut communities.
The funds will be awarded to eligible towns and regional development agencies as part of the Historic Brownfield Revitalization Program. Up to $300,000 will be awarded to each eligible applicant, according to local news source The Stratford Star.
"The historic properties we are targeting are often situated in strategic locations within our cities and towns, by the water or on visible intersections, and represent a unique opportunity for downtown and waterfront revitalization that is compatible with the existing character of the surrounding community," Governor Malloy wrote in a statement. "By doing so, we will also alleviate blight, remove environmental contamination and put these vacant properties back on the tax rolls, all while creating jobs for residents – a win-win for both our state and local economies."
An estimated 400 historic brownfield sites exist within the state. Many contain harmful chemicals or volatile organic compounds left over from the Connecticut's long history as a manufacturing and industrial sector. According to the Stratford Star, the DECD had received numerous applications to address old mill properties in the state, but few were awarded because redevelopment strategies after remediation was complete were lacking. This current round of funding now seeks to address many of those properties.
Governor Malloy has urged community stakeholders or other interested parties to submit their application electronically to the DECD by November 17, 2014.
It is in community members best interest to work with an environmental consultant to gain available funding. Their experienced insight can help highlight how remediation can be accomplished as efficiently as possible, and how the process can revitalize the local economy.