What are Brownfields?

EPA defines a brownfield site as real property, the expansion, redevelopment, or reuse of which may be complicated by the presence or potential presence of a hazardous substance, pollutant, or contaminant. As such, brownfields are sites with known or perceived contamination.

What is MVPC’s Role in Addressing Brownfields?

MVPC funds Phase I Environmental Site Assessments, which involve site inspection and a review of publicly available documents. Based on the results of the Phase I assessment, some sites require additional assessment (Phase II), including soil and groundwater testing. Further assessment activities can include remediation planning to clean the site up for future use. Member communities seeking funding from MVPC’s assessment program can find an application in the resources section of our website.

Cleanup and Redevelopment

In 2016, MVPC received a $820,000 award from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency to establish a revolving loan fund (RLF) for contamination cleanup. With this funding, MVPC offers grants and low interest loans to eligible public and private sector entities to clean up Brownfields sites in the region. For the Merrimack Valley Brownfields Cleanup RLF Application please visit the Resources section of our website.

Partner Links

U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection
MassDevelopment

Program Staff

For more information, please contact:

Jennifer Hughes, Environmental Program Manager
phone: 978-374-0519 ext. 16
email: Jhughes@mvpc.org