$175M Available for Brownfield Remediation in Ohio

COLUMBUS, Ohio – Nearly $175 million in grant funding is now available to help communities in the state clean up contaminated properties and prepare them for new development opportunities. 

The funding will be awarded as part of the Ohio Brownfield Remediation Program, which helps local communities clean up industrial, commercial and institutional brownfield sites that are abandoned, idled or underused due to a known or potential release of hazardous substances or petroleum. 

“Many of the brownfield properties in Ohio once played an important role in the industries that shaped our great state’s legacy of innovation,” Gov. Mike DeWine said. “By supporting more of our communities through this transformative program, we’re giving these sites a second chance and clearing a path for Ohio’s next great economic success story.” 

The Ohio Department of Development administers the Ohio Brownfield Remediation Program. The first three rounds of the program – announced in April, June and December 2022 – provided nearly $350 million to support 313 projects in 83 counties. 

“Brownfield cleanup can be very expensive, making it challenging for many of our communities to complete,” said Lydia Mihalik, director of the Ohio Department of Development. “Thanks to the support of Gov. DeWine and Lt. Gov. Husted, and our partners in the Ohio General Assembly, we’re ready to empower more of our local partners in turning these eyesores into new businesses, housing and hubs for future growth.” 

This new round of funding was made possible with support from the Ohio General Assembly in the most recent biennium budget bill, House Bill 33. As required by the bill, each county will have access to a $1 million set-aside, with the remaining funds awarded on a first-come, first-served basis. 

“Reviving brownfield sites isn’t just about clearing the past – it’s about sculpting a promising future,” Lt. Gov. Jon Husted said. “Cleaning these sites opens up residential, commercial and industrial locations that are already connected to the necessary infrastructure to redevelop. This unlocks the potential for vibrant communities, breathing new life into forgotten grounds to become a place where history greets innovation.”

Projects that assess or remediate brownfield properties are eligible for funding. Each county has designated a lead entity that may apply for funding on behalf of the county. Entities that contributed to the contamination of properties are not eligible to apply. 

Applications are open through 11:59 p.m. April 1, 2024.

Published by The Business Journal, Youngstown, Ohio.