Understanding Brownfields
A brownfield is a property where redevelopment, reuse, or expansion is complicated by the actual or potential presence of hazardous substances, pollutants, or contaminants. These properties are often vacant, abandoned, or underutilized, and may be viewed as contributing to neighborhood decline or “blight.”
Examples of brownfield properties include:
Residential properties can also be classified as brownfields when there is evidence—or a strong likelihood—that hazardous or petroleum products were used or stored on-site. Vacant residential land slated for redevelopment often falls into this category. Additionally, properties affected by illegal drug production, such as former methamphetamine labs (sometimes referred to as “methfields”), represent another type of residential brownfield.
Community Benefits of Cleanup and Reinvestment
Investing in the cleanup and revitalization of brownfields provides measurable benefits for both residents and local governments. These include:
By addressing brownfields, communities can transform underutilized properties into safe, valuable assets that support economic growth, environmental health, and improved quality of life.
