Senators Levin, Jeffords and Collins Introduce Bill to Redevelop Brownfields and Revitalize Communities

WASHINGTON – Senators Carl Levin (D-MI), Jim Jeffords ( I-VT) and Susan Collins (R-ME), today introduced legislation to assist communities in redeveloping abandoned or under-used industrial properties, known as brownfields, so that the sites can offer new opportunities for businesses. Redeveloping brownfields, the Senators say, could help spur economic development in communities which have been hurt by the sagging economy.

"Brownfields redevelopment is a fiscally-sound way to bring investment back to neglected neighborhoods, clean up the environment, maximize use of existing infrastructure, create jobs, and relieve development pressure on our urban fringe and farmlands," said Levin. "Michigan has been a national leader in brownfields development. It is my hope that the funding provided by this legislation will open the door for communities across the nation to transform brownfields into green spaces, housing developments or bustling commercial centers."

"Communities all across Vermont are recognizing that brownfields sites are often the best options for economic growth and development. It makes sense to encourage redevelopment of old industrial sites, near our downtowns, where we have the services and infrastructure to support the associated business activity."

"The textile mills and tanneries of Maine helped fuel our country's economic growth. But as these industries closed, brownfields replaced once vibrant factories. In many communities across Maine these sites remain a legacy of our industrial history," said Collins. "This bill will help turn brownfields into opportunities for new industries, job growth and economic development."

The Brownfields Redevelopment Assistance Act of 2003 expands the Department of Commerce's Economic Development Administration initiatives to assist communities with brownfields redevelopment. The bill authorizes $60 million annually for five years for brownfields redevelopment. This grant money could be used for business development, activities to help communities diversity their economies, collaborative economic development planning, eco-industrial development and revolving loan funds.

The following organizations support passage of the legislation: U.S. Conference of Mayors, National League of Cities, National Association of Counties, National Association of Development Organizations, National Association of Regional Councils, the National Congress for Community Economic Development, American Planning Association, Smart Growth America, The Enterprise Foundation, American Society of Civil Engineers and National Business Incubation Association.