Brownfields are abandoned or underutilized properties whose redevelopment is impaired or complicated by real or perceived environmental contamination.  The City is interested in brownfield redevelopment to accomplish several goals:

• A cleaner environment that protects  natural habitats
• A safer environment that protects human health
• The development of abandoned property to improve adjacent neighborhoods, by providing jobs, services and/or housing and removing blight
• The development of property to increase the local tax base and reduce sprawl
• Providing urban in-fill for the City and surrounding area
  

The City works closely with Federal Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) on these projects.  Beginning in 1996, the City received Federal EPA grants to establish a Brownfield Assessment Grant Program that helps pay for assessments at privately owned brownfield sites.  While the Federal funds have been fully expended, the City has continued the program using local funds.  Information on the Brownfield Assessment Grant Program can be found by clicking on the right.  A listing of projects funded through the program can also be found on the right.
 
In addition, the City works closely with State Department of Natural Resources (DENR) staff to expedite the review and clean-up of brownfield sites.  Since 2002, DENR staff has been located in Charlotte because of the large demand for brownfield redevelopment.  This allows Prospective Developers and Brownfields Staff to meet locally  to  answer questions and review projects at a local level.  If you would like to learn more about the State Brownfield Program, please click on the right to connect to the State's webpage.  A list of State projects is also included on the right.

You can also call the  State staff directly: Carolyn Minnich, 704-661-0330, carolyn.minnich@ncmail.net.